With growing interest in paddock-to-plate food production and increasing discussion about meat processing options for small producers, Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) is hosting a practical pig owners field day at Whittingham to help landholders better understand pig husbandry, health and the pork production process.
The Pig Owners field day, to be held at Whittingham on 31 March, will bring together District Veterinarians from Hunter LLS to share practical advice on pig husbandry, health and regulatory requirements.
The field day will cover topics including common pig diseases and vaccinations, why swill feeding is illegal, pig nutrition and welfare, and livestock traceability requirements such as PigPass and the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS).
Hunter Local Land Services District Veterinarian, Kristi Arnot, said the event is designed to support both new and experienced pig owners with practical information.
“Interest in keeping pigs is growing among small landholders, and it’s important that owners understand how to manage pig health, welfare and biosecurity responsibilities,” Kristi said.
A highlight of the event will be a live demonstration by a mobile butcher, showing how a pig carcase is broken down and explaining the different pork cuts and yields.
“Hunter Local Land Services understands that localised processing can be important for some producers, and availability can vary across regions,” Kristi said.
“This demonstration is a great opportunity for people to better understand the full paddock-to-plate process and the different pathways involved in pork production.”
The free event is open to small landholders, new pig owners and anyone interested in learning more about pig husbandry and pork production. Registrations are essential and can be made online.
