RAISING pigs profitably in Sydney will be the subject of a free workshop held by the Department of Primary Industries and Greater Sydney Local Land Services on May 21.
Attendees will get the chance to hear from industry leaders and biosecurity experts as well as other pig producers on their own experiences, triumphs and challenges.
Greater Sydney Local Land Services biosecurity officer Dr Nic Schembri said topics covered would include pig health, disease prevention, nutrition basics, tricks of the trade for “meating” the market and important information on managing biosecurity risks that can come from poorly managed animals.
“Before buying a pig you must consider things like council requirements as well as where and how the pigs will be kept,” Dr Schembri said. “These decisions impact on the pig’s health and nutrition, and your ability to meet the strict market specifications.”
Hawkesbury business Melanda Park Free Range Pork owners Matt Simmons and wife Sue will be two of the local producers to share their story on the day.
“The Sydney basin is vulnerable to significant biosecurity risks,” Mr Simmons said. “It’s important we take every precaution possible.” He urged other potential and existing pig producers to attend the workshop to learn the tricks of what can be a challenging trade.
The workshop will be on 12.30 – 3.30pm at Penrith RSL. Registration and free lunch from 12pm. Details: 0438 073 749 or nic.schembri@lls.nsw.gov.au or to book visit gslls.wufoo.eu/forms/raising-pigs-workshop-21516.