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Early Weaning Pays Off
The great benefits of early weaning last December at Cudgegong Park, Mudgee, came to fruition recently with the sale of the steer portion to a feedlot for $2.15/kg at weights ranging from 402 to 496 kgs on farm, at
only 13 and 14 months of age, (July and August born calves). The grey steers’ average weight was 443 kgs.
“Due to the drought we decided to undertake early yard weaning on the 8th December 2002 at 3 to 5 months of age with weights ranging from 130 to 232 kgs.” said Graham Boyd of Cudgegong Park.
Recent research and experiences at Cudgegong Park into
early weaning indicated the following benefits and results;
- Stimulated rumen development for more efficient feed conversion both immediately and for the life of the animal.
Increased growth rate at an earlier age due to the improved feed conversion efficiency.
- It costs less to feed the calf and feed and maintain the cow separately.
- Minimal stress for the calves and cows was achieved at weaning as calves were creeped fed for a few weeks prior to weaning. The calves kept gaining weight and the cow’s conception to first service was very good.
- Enhanced the calves quiet temperament. After four days of yard weaning the calves showed no stress and continued to camp either in the yard or not far away in the twenty hectare paddock.
- Calves were fed from weaning until the end of February 2003 on pasture hay and pellets. Then Cudgegong Park received a seasonal break, and the calves have relied on good to average pasture since that time.
- Calves were drenched, 5 in 1 vaccine, Vitamin A, D and E and Vitamin B12 injections at different times over the last 12 months so as to ensure their optimum health.
- Steer calves were castrated on 6/4/2003 using Callicrate banders so as to minimise stress and capitalise on muscle development at 7 to 8 months of age. They also received 5 in 1 vaccine to minimise disease risk.
“Although there is extra work and cost with early weaning, the benefits of improved weight gain, feed conversion efficiency and increased stocking rates are benefits which should be attractive to most beef cattle
operations.” Commented Graham Boyd of Cudgegong Park.
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Cudgegong Park Spring 2002 Calves Weigh Gain Performance
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Calves Category
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Born
2002
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Birth weight Range
(kgs)
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Weaning Weight Range 8/12/02
(Kgs)
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Weight Range
23/01/03
(Kgs)
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Weight Range
6/04/03
(Kgs)
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Weight Range
25/05/03
(Kgs)
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Weight Range
14/09/03
(Kgs)
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Steers
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July
August
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32 - 45
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147 -222
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200 - 268
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250 - 304
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296 - 370
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402 - 496
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Bulls
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July
August
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32 -40
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174 - 232
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212 - 245
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260 - 324
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312 - 396
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436 - 505
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Heifers
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July
August
September
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30 -42
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130 - 212
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171 - 244
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208- 294
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224 - 342
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326 - 424
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Finally the benefits to the feedlot industry of early weaned cattle should be very good as the improved rumen development at a younger age will lead to a life long improved feed
conversion efficiency and weight gain. Feedlots may even request such cattle, or pay a premium.
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