17 November 1999

Radio Frequency Identification Devices will be used as the standard form of identification of cattle in Australia’s National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), SAFEMEAT Chairman, Jack Ware announced today.

The RF ID devices will use electronic transponders embedded in ear tags or rumen boluses and permanently coded with a unique number. This transponder number will be linked to the property and animal number in a computer. A hand held or fixed reader can be used to read the devices, or they can be read visually.

Mr Ware said the devices were already used commercially with the Victorian Government providing one million RF devices free of charge to producers earlier this year.

Chairman of the Committee responsible for implementing the ID scheme, John Wyld, said it was important to note that while participation in the national scheme was voluntary, producers wishing to sell cattle to EU licensed abattoirs must use NLIS endorsed RF ear tags.

Mr Wyld explained a technical committee had examined cattle identification devices from companies all over the globe before deciding on RF devices.

"While more expensive than standard ear tags, RF devices offer significant advantages through automation of collection and processing of information, which reduces errors. This provides many positive opportunities both on farm and along the production chain."

Mr Wyld said the ability to obtain accurate, individual carcase feedback was potentially the biggest benefit of the scheme, allowing producers who use computerised records or are involved in breeding programs to further improve carcase quality.

He said Meat and Livestock Australia was establishing a database to manage this information flow and maximise the industry value in the delivery of carcase feedback.

While only one RF device is currently endorsed for use in the NLIS, additional devices are under active consideration by the committee. It is the intention of the NLIS to stimulate competitive forces in the market place for RF devices.

There are two forms of RF devices, known as HDX and FDX-B now endorsed as a national standard for cattle.

ends

Released by Chris Rowley - MLA Corporate Affairs - 02 9463 9257

Media contact: John Wyld - 03 5579 0222 or 0428 105 670 / Len Stephens 02 9463 9305