Research Question

With eID in sheep now mandatory in Victoria, there are many benefits for producers to use the technologies on-farm to help assist in decision making and increasing productivity.

Research Information & Objectives

What is being done?
This MLA producer demonstration site (PDS) funded project led by SFS and partners with Birchip Cropping Group will demonstrate the benefits of using sheep eID technologies in mixed farming systems.
The runs for a total of five years from 2019 to 2025
Project Deliverables:
• Nine case studies from core producers who are testing out eID technologies on-farm
• 26 observing producers, who will provide practice changes and their experiences
• Establish and facilitate a Community of Practice discussion group with a minimum of 50 participants.

Webinar Series - The benefits of eID in Sheep Production

1. Production and Finishing Systems with Nathan Scott, Achieve Ag Solutions - 27 August 2025 . Discover how electronic identification (eID) can transform your sheep enterprise. In this practical and insightful webinar, Nathan Scott from Achieve Ag Solutions explores how eID technology can be applied across key areas of sheep production and finishing systems to improve decision-making, productivity, and profitability. Whether you're just starting with eID or looking to maximise its benefits, this session offers valuable tips and real-world examples to help you get the most out of your eID. View the recording here...
2. Data Management Webinar with Andrew Whitlock & Jane Mulbolland, neXtgen Agri - 4 September 2025.  Discover how electronic identification (eID) can revolutionise your sheep operation in this practical and insightful webinar. Join Andrew Whitlock, a farmer from Rokewood, VIC, and Jane Mulholland from neXtgen Agri, as they share: What eID data they collect How they manage and interpret that data Real-world examples of using eID to make smarter decisions Whether you're just starting with eID or looking to maximise its benefits, this session is packed with valuable tips and takeaways. View the recording here...
3. The Reality of using eID Webinar with Fiona Conroy, David Gordon & John Connell - 10 September 2025.  Discover how electronic identification (eID) can revolutionise your sheep operation in this practical and insightful webinar. Join Fiona, David and John  as they share their experiences with using eID on farm this session is packed with valuable tips and takeaways. View the recording here...

 

How farmers are using eID

1. From Tradition to Tech: Sammy Mitchell’s Smart Farming Journey
   Discover how Sammy Mitchell is transforming her family’s 2900-hectare mixed farming operation in Willangie, Victoria, by embracing cutting-edge eID technology and modern infrastructure. With a proactive mindset and a passion for data-driven decisions, Sammy is streamlining livestock management, improving productivity, and setting a new standard for small-scale farm innovation. This case study is a must-read for producers looking to boost efficiency and future-proof their operations.📄 Read the full case study
2. Young Farmer, Big Impact: Jordy Sheahan’s Data-Driven Success
   Jordy Sheahan is proving that age is no barrier to innovation in agriculture. At just 23, he’s leading the charge in integrating eID technology and performance recording into his sheep enterprise in Boort, Victoria. This case study highlights how Jordy is using data to make smarter decisions, improve flock productivity, and build a resilient, future-focused farming business. A must-read for producers looking to modernise and maximise their operations.📄 Read the full case study
3. Fleece Focus: Fiona Conroy’s live weights to fleece weight performance
   Fiona Conroy's case study explored the correlation of sheep live weights to fleece weight outcomes. This case study showcases the information collected using eID's and why there is a poor correlation between live weight and fleece weight.📄 Read the full case study
4. Precision Pays: Alan Bennett’s eID Advantage
   Alan Bennett is taking livestock management to the next level at his mixed farming enterprise in Lawloit and Telopea Downs, Victoria. By adopting electronic identification (eID) and performance recording, Alan is unlocking new insights into sheep productivity and making more informed decisions. This case study reveals how technology and data can drive profitability and efficiency, even in traditional farming systems. A great read for producers ready to embrace innovation.📄 Read the full case study
5. Optimising Stud Operations with eID Technology: The Gordon Family Experience - Explore the inspiring journey of the Gordon family from Condah, Victoria, as they revolutionize their Bruan Poll Dorset stud using electronic identification (eID) technology. This compelling case study showcases how the integration of eID has empowered the Gordons to enhance productivity, streamline data collection, and make informed breeding decisions. From tracking birth and weaning weights to optimizing sire selection with MateSel and improving sale efficiency, the Gordon family's story is a testament to innovation in action. Ideal for producers seeking to boost efficiency and profitability, this case study is a must-read for anyone looking to modernize their livestock management practices.📄 Read the full case study
6. Sheep eID: challenges, benefits and practical insights from an advisor: Luke Rolley - As an Agribusiness consultant & small farm owner/operator Luke's knowledge on eID  benefits was limited, but he is a firm believer "without data we cannot measure performance". This case study highlights how Luke uses the technology to optimise performance.📄 Read the full case study
7. eID on the Surf Coast: Murray Johns - Murray Johns is a mixed livestock producer based at Bellbrae, south-west Victoria. In 2022, Murray planned to implement eIDs into his farming system in three stages, read how he does it...📄 Read the full case study

Articles

eID enhances farm productivity,  13 Jan 2025

Our experience with sheep eID, by Fiona Conroy, Knewleave Partnership

• Grace EvansSenior Research and Extension Officer0418 434 674gevans@sfs.org.au
• Jessie WettenhallSenior Research and Extension Officer0447 848 815jwettenhall@sfs.org.au