Revolutionary Automation Transforms Sheep Processing
The Te Pari Auto Drafter has transformed operations at a major Canterbury finishing farm. Kevin Clucus now processes up to 700 lambs per hour at his Mayfield property. This remarkable achievement doubles his previous processing capacity.
Advanced Technology Meets Practical Farming
The new Te Pari Auto Drafter stands out with its innovative weighing system. It uses top-mounted cells that suspend the weight crate. This design allows for quick, accurate readings even on uneven ground. The system’s EID reader loops around the entire crate, catching tag information from any position.
“The speed at which it weighs is nearly twice as quick,” says Clucus, who manages 40,000 lambs annually. His 500-hectare farm specializes in premium Lumina lamb production. The automation has cut labor needs from two workers to just one.
Precision Meets Productivity
The Auto Drafter’s design separates entry and exit gates from the weighing area. This prevents pushing animals from affecting weight readings. The system maintains accuracy while processing hundreds of animals per hour. With EID reading activated, it still manages 600-650 lambs hourly.
Impact on Farm Management
Clucus uses the system to monitor lamb growth at critical stages. “When we weigh at 28 days, we get great information,” he explains. This data helps identify animals needing extra care. The farm can quickly separate underperforming lambs for additional attention.
The system offers remote control capabilities for manual overrides. Its hot-dip galvanized construction ensures durability and high resale value. These features make it particularly valuable for large-scale operations.
Economic Benefits and Operational Improvements
The investment has paid off in multiple ways. Labor costs have dropped by half while processing speed has doubled. The system has also reduced stress on both animals and workers. This makes yard work more efficient and enjoyable.
The success at Clucus’s farm shows how automation can transform traditional farming practices. The Te Pari Auto Drafter processes lambs faster while maintaining high accuracy standards. This balance of speed and precision proves especially valuable for premium lamb production.
Future Implications for the Industry
This advancement in farming technology sets new standards for livestock management. Farmers can now process more animals with less labor while maintaining quality control. The system’s success at Clucus’s farm demonstrates its potential for other large-scale operations.
Expert Perspective
“It’s an absolute game-changer for us,” Clucus states. “It’s saved us time, labour and ease.” His experience highlights how modern technology can solve traditional farming challenges. The system particularly benefits farms handling premium products like Lumina lambs.
Looking Ahead
The Te Pari Auto Drafter represents a significant step forward in farming automation. Its success in Canterbury provides a model for other farming operations. As labor costs rise and efficiency becomes more crucial, such innovations become increasingly valuable to the industry.