Cost effective and multipurpose self-mustering enclosures for stock.

Abstract

Graziers all over Australia spend a lot of time and money on mustering stock each year. This cost is increasing as they now muster a wider range of stock more often. Self-mustering at water points is an alternative method of mustering. It can reduce the time, costs and stress of mustering, and the
yards can be used for other purposes.
Self-mustering enclosures consist of hinge-joint yards that enclose permanent water points, such as troughs and ground tanks. Each yard is equipped with one or more types of entry and exit gates and has been designed to handle cattle, sheep and goats, thus increasing its effectiveness and efficiency.
The advantages of using self-mustering enclosures are numerous. They allow graziers to muster many types of animals, thus spreading the cost of the enclosures over several different musters. Other benefits include reducing stress to stock and workers, improving management practices,
reducing chemical application and creating safer working conditions. The enclosures are also used to hold stock in paddocks during crutching, lamb marking and blowfly treatment.
This publication provides detailed plans and material lists on how to build a self-mustering enclosure. It also sets out the steps required for operating an enclosure, including how to train and muster stock.