Pilbara Innovation Partnership project to support beef industry innovation and resilience
The inaugural participants in the Pilbara Innovation Partnership’s (PIP) new Pilbara Extension Network (PEN) research and development (R&D) initiative have been announced.
The fresh approach to R&D is backed by the partnership between Rio Tinto, Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
The PIP aims to build a skilled network of station personnel to develop and implement tailored research projects that benefit individual pastoral business, as well as the broader industry.
Seven stations will participate in the program, including Koodarrie station (Onslow), Wyloo station (Nanutarra), Warrawagine station (Marble Bar), Yarrie station (Marble Bar), Sylvania station (Newman), Hillside station (Nullagine) and Limestone station (Marble Bar).
Participants will receive flexible training in project management, extension and leadership, mentoring and networking opportunities over a 12 month period.
They will then go on to co-design a project proposal, in partnership with their stations, to address business opportunities or constraints, with the aim of attracting stakeholder co-investment to build research capabilities in the region.
The personnel will also take on leadership roles in three R&D network hubs to be established in the west Pilbara, north-central Pilbara and east Pilbara.
These hubs will engage with local pastoralists to share outcomes, knowledge and experiences.
PIP Innovation Manger Liz Moss said the Pilbara Extension Network project provided a unique opportunity for station managers and staff to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the northern pastoral industry.
“The project will empower local leaders to implement industry led innovations that address real world challenges,” she said
“Participation in the network will not only support the professional growth of pastoralists’ teams but also contribute to projects and investments that benefit the northern beef industry.”
Once established, the PEN will lay sound foundations for future Pilbara Innovation projects that build economic and environmental resilience for the northern beef industry.
Rio Tinto Manager Pastoral Stations David Fallon said the Pilbara Innovation Partnership was an opportunity to drive innovation in the cattle industry through targeted research projects that focus on management, community empowerment, technology and sustainability.
“The knowledge that comes come from this research will be shared broadly to ensure the ongoing success of the pastoral industry,” he said.
“The Pilbara Network Extension is one of the ways in which our partnership with the DPIRD and MLA is working to empower a new generation of leaders in the Pilbara beef industry.”
MLA program manager innovation capability Joshua Whelan said once formed, the network would be an integral part of the Pilbara Innovation Partnership.
“MLA is investing in the Pilbara Innovation Partnership to demonstrate specific transformational change options for profitable beef production that values the land and environment,” he said.
“This, in turn, will support producers to increase productivity and better meet market specifications.”
