Low-stress stock handling workshops return
Following the success of the 2017 course, Nic Kentish is returning to Kangaroo Island to teach the low stress way of interacting between people and animals to improve farming efficiency and increase productivity.
Mr Kentish will run two low-stress stock handling workshops on the 4 and 5 April at the Island Pure sheep Dairy on Gum Creek Road.
Mr Kentish, a grazier and low-stress stock trainer with more than 10 years’ experience running such workshops says the approach is about fostering a less stressful interaction between people and animals through reduced stock handling.
“This leads to improved human and animal wellbeing and improved economic outcomes,” he said.
“In the workshops you will learn how to change a 10 per cent weight loss in lambs that occurs in the first month after weaning into a 5 per cent gain, and how to slow paddock stock movement for a decrease in hay and grain supplement use.
“Days spent in the stockyards are often stressful, creating a strained working environment for family businesses and colleagues alike.
“The workshop will help you to reduce your own stress while handling stock.
“You will see working conditions improve and experience increased income from less stressed and more productive animals.”
Mr Kentish said efficient stock movement provided animals with time to sort out their hierarchy at mustering and to mother-up at marking.
“By the end of the course you will be able to identify the natural instincts of the mob and work with them, rather than forcing them,” he said.
Local farmer David Westbrook, who attended a previous workshop, said the low-stress stock handling course was not to be missed.
"I absolutely loved the course and the way Nic presents it,” Mr Westbrook said.
“It was great fun working with the group and I got so much more out of the two days than I expected.
“The opportunity to undertake a LSSH course should not be missed by anyone who works with stock."
Workshop fees are $880 per person with a 25 per cent discount for a second person from the same family or business, while youths under 16 can join for half price.
Mr Kentish offers a no questions asked, money back guarantee if you are not satisfied.
The workshop is supported by the KI NRM Board through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.
For more information or to register your interest contact Grant Flanagan on 8553 4440 or email grant.flanagan@sa.gov.au. Please RSVP by Thursday, 29 March.
