Research

Current Programs

Application of genomic-based technology for the development of new health products This is a collaborative project with CSIRO AAHL Geelong, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of New England and Bioproperties Pty Ltd.
Development of new generation mycoplasma based vaccines This is a collaborative project with University of Melbourne, CSIR AAHL Geelong, University of Sydney and Bioproperties Pty Ltd
Australian Poultry CRC - Oral delivery systems for poultry health products. This is a collaborative project with Professors Scott and Whittington in the faculty and has support for 1.5 years.
The relationship between measures of fearfulness and the response of laying hens to stress. This project involved an Australian Poultry CRC Honours Scholarship for Yvonne Reynolds.
Non-invasive assessment of stress for laying hens maintained in different housing systems. Collaboration with the University of Queensland.
Potassium diformate was evaluated as a potential replacement for antibiotic growth promotants (AGP) in broiler diets, as this organic acid preparation is an approved, non-antibiotic growth promotant in pigs in Europe.
An exogenous phytase (0, 500, 750 FTU/kg) was evaluated in diets based on either wheat or sorghum with two tiers of nutrient specifications, which were offered to 1,680 broilers from 1-42 days post hatch in the deep litter facility.
The effects of steam-pelleting two different wheat types and xylanase addition on growth performance, nutrient utilisation and digesta viscosity of broilers from 1-41 days post-hatch were determined in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial study.
Confirmation of the positive energy effect of phytase and clarifying the anti-nutritive properties of phytate in respect of energy utilisation.
Grain feeding value for laying hens. A project supported by the Premium Grains for Livestock Program of the Grains Research and Development Corporation. Completed
Evaluation of a whey calcium and protein source for NSI Dental in broiler chickens. Completed
Evaluation of a fish by-product as a nutraceutical for poultry - Bega Nutritional Products. Completed.
Resubmitted a project to the RIRDC Chicken Meat Program - Variability in performance and physiology of broilers fed wheat- and sorghum-based diets.
Funding received for a three year project: RIRDC Chicken Meat Program - Early dietary and management intervention on broiler breast meat yield