R&D update
Protein research continues
AWI research into the potential of a revolutionary protein injection program as an alternative to mulesing continues, with the concept now the subject of design and development contracts.
Research Project Manager for AWI, Jim Rothwell, said: "We have proven the concept is effective in modifying skin around the breech and have identified several manufacturers who we are now evaluating on effectiveness, price and their capacity to deliver."
"We have engaged the Victorian College of Pharmacy to formulate the protein and we are currently fine-tuning the process. Our aim is to simplify the process of application and to ensure that the applicator itself is designed to make the procedure as comfortable as possible for the sheep."
AWI has also engaged the Animal Welfare Centre in Victoria to conduct a welfare study to measure the effects on sheep from the protein injection procedure.
"Like all new technologies, the protein injections concept will take time to perfect, though the wool industry is well placed to meet its commitment to phase out mulesing by 2010," Mr Rothwell said.