Hawke’s Bay Farmer Boosts Cattle Efficiency with Auto Weigher Technology

Added 2 months ago

Hawke’s Bay farmer Matthew Barham runs a 1020-hectare property carrying up to 2000 cattle, typically Charolais, Angus, and Simmental X steers and bulls. Stock generally arrive at 12–16 months weighing 300–450kg, and are grown out to more than 550kg before leaving the farm at just over two years of age.

To save time and improve animal health, Matthew adopted the Gallagher Auto Weigher system, developed by Irish-Canadian company StrongBo Agritech. The unit records accurate weights in the paddock or feedlot, removing the need to move cattle through yards.

The system attracts animals onto a platform using a molasses or mineral block. Each animal is identified via its EID tag, weight data is captured and adjusted to a full body reading using AI and algorithms, and results are uploaded to the cloud. Farmers can then track average weights and daily gains for mobs or individual animals through an intuitive dashboard, supporting data-driven management decisions.

Efficiency and Accuracy Gains

The Auto Weigher’s portability allows cattle to weigh themselves in the paddock, reducing handling stress and saving significant time. Accurate weight data supports management and sales decisions, ensuring precise information rather than estimates. Comparisons with the farm’s conventional scales have confirmed consistent accuracy, with results generally within a few kilos.

Animal Welfare Benefits

The technology reduces stress and potential health risks by eliminating the need to move cattle long distances for weighing. It also allows for more effective visual checks in the paddock, minimising the need to weigh every animal while still ensuring robust monitoring of the herd.

Adoption and Practical Use

Matthew introduced the units by placing molasses-based attractants, encouraging cattle to step onto the platform. The small ongoing cost of attractants is outweighed by the benefits of accurate information and time savings.

The Auto Weigher has proven durable in tough farm conditions, continuing to perform reliably despite heavy use and exposure.

Overall, the system has delivered significant efficiency improvements, accurate performance insights, and enhanced animal welfare outcomes.