Introduction
Grassdale is among the largest and most prominent beef feedlots in Australia. Overseeing animal health at the complex operation is Livestock Health Supervisor, Brett Harrison, who has been with the feedlot for over 11 years. One of the pivotal improvements he’s seen over these years is the implementation of NumatAGRI’s YoungStar rubber matting across their processing sheds. Designed in partnership with industry experts, YoungStar has been specially tailored to meet the demands of the beef industry.
The Challenge
Grassdale’s initial setup featured stencil concrete flooring in their processing sheds and hospital units, which became a significant issue. The hard, slick surface led to an increase in slips and injuries amongst the livestock, and a higher incidence of foot rot and foot abscesses. Harrison explains, “The animals, as they only have a very thin hoof, as they slip and scramble on the concrete, they’re taking that off.”
In addition, the concrete flooring also posed safety risks for staff and horses. The slip-prone surface was not conducive to the safe and efficient running of the feedlot.
“Overall, this matting’s been very successful. I’d recommend this matting in the use of a feed yard or sale yard.”
The Solution
To mitigate these issues, Grassdale sought a better alternative. After trialling several rubber matting solutions, they found their answer in NumatAGRI’s YoungStar rubber matting. The product’s high durability and safety credentials distinguished it from other options, making it the ideal solution for Grassdale’s needs. “We have tried two different types of rubber matting and this one has been the most successful by far,” Harrison affirms.
YoungStar matting was installed as part of the construction of new sheds. Apart from being highly durable, it also significantly enhanced safety for both humans and animals, leading to a substantial reduction in slips and injuries. Harrison observed, “It’s a lot safer for people and horses to walk on so there’s less chance to slip compared to other types of matting that we’ve had.”
The ease of cleaning was another advantage of YoungStar. Given Grassdale’s commitment to daily washing of yards, YoungStar matting – being easier to hose down – contributed to a cleaner and more hygienic environment.
“We have tried two different types of rubber matting and this one has been the most successful by far.”
The Results
The implementation of YoungStar rubber matting delivered remarkable results, enhancing both animal welfare and worker safety at the feedlot. The incidence of foot rot and foot abscesses in cattle reduced significantly, and the staff and horses experienced fewer slips and falls. The matting proved durable, withstanding the heavy traffic passing through the sheds.
Summing up the impact of the installation, Harrison stated, “Overall, this matting’s been very successful. I’d recommend this matting in the use of a feed yard or sale yard.” Given this success, Grassdale plans to extend the use of YoungStar matting to all their processing sheds.
Conclusion
Grassdale’s experience with NumatAGRI’s YoungStar rubber matting serves as a testament to its effectiveness. By significantly enhancing the safety and wellbeing of both livestock and staff, and proving easy to clean and durable, YoungStar has brought substantial benefits to one of Australia’s largest beef feedlots.
NumatAGRI would like to thank the team at Grassdale for their feedback and support during the testing and development stages of creating the YoungStar Mat. A huge thank you to Brett Harrison for his time in the making of this case study.
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