Feedlotting
The WA feedlot sector has the capacity to feed more than 100 000 head of cattle at any one time and could potentially feed 400 000 cattle each year.
Due to current market requirements, the sector’s capacity is underutilised with only 70% of this capacity used in any quarter of the year.
Feedlotting in WA has the advantage of access to abundant sources of grain and fodder from the local grain industry in addition to the advantage of low freight costs due to short distances between grain sources and feedlots.
The WA wheatbelt region also offers the advantage of a drier climate which reduces the impact of environmental issues such as odour and effluent treatment.
Most WA feedlots operate under the voluntary National Feedlot Accreditation System which monitors compliance with animal welfare, environment, biosecurity, food safety and product integrity legislation and standards.
WA feedlots are world class and highly efficient.
Investment in feedlotting capacity could make a valuable addition to any integrated export supply chain.