World-first Australian innovation set to revolutionize dairy industry 26 November 2010 A world-first robotic rotary automatic milking machine, which has been developed in Australia, is set to revolutionize dairy farming for larger herds. Developed by the University of Sydney in collaboration with Australia’s FutureDairy project and Swedish equipment manufacturer, DeLaval International AB, the innovative robotic rotary machine automates most milking tasks. The machine has been has been designed for larger grazing herds of more than 300 cows. Automatic milking machines currently in use internationally have been developed for much smaller herds; however, the new Australian robotic rotary can operate under a variety of dairying systems such as free-stalls and loose housing. The Chair of FutureDairy, Shirley Harlock, said that the robotic rotary was a major step towards addressing two of the key challenges facing the dairy industry: the availability of labour and the lifestyle associated with dairying. A limited commercial release of the machine will take place next year under the brand name DeLaval AMR (automatic milking rotary). The DeLaval AMR has just received international recognition with the award of the prestigious 2010 Eurotier Gold Medal in Germany. Earlier this month, Senator Joe Ludwig, the Australian Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, opened a facility on the outskirts of Sydney which showcased the robotic rotary. “Investment and innovation have enabled Australian farmers to remain amongst the most productive and efficient primary producers in the world,” Senator Ludwig said. More information |