This week on the Head Shepherd podcast, we’re deep-diving into Toxoplasma Gondii with veterinary parasitologist Connor Bury. Connor walks us through the lifecycle of the parasite, how it’s impacting sheep farmers across the world, and what we can do to reduce the impacts of it.

Whilst many know cats are the main culprits in spreading Toxo, did you know the importance of water quality when it comes to reducing the spread of the parasite?

Tune in today to learn more and equip yourself with the knowledge to lower your sheep's risk of toxoplasmosis.

Head Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited. We help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best: info@nextgenagri.com.

Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, and Heiniger Australia and New Zealand. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.

Check out Heiniger's product range HERE
Check out the MSD range HERE
Check out Allflex products HERE

This week on the podcast, our guest is Amber Smith- our newest livestock consultant to join the team. Raised on a Merino stud in central-west New South Wales, Amber developed a deep connection to livestock early on, working with sheep, cattle, dogs and horses. After completing an honours degree in Animal Science at the University of New England, she ventured north to the cattle stations of the Northern Territory.

Returning south, Amber launched her own sheep contracting business, gaining valuable insights into different production systems, infrastructure efficiencies, and breed-specific management. Now, as part of the team, she's excited to work with farmers to improve productivity, genetics, and overall flock performance.

Based in New South Wales, Amber is ready to hit the road, meet clients, and apply her expertise to help farmers get the most out of their livestock.

Head Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited. We help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best: info@nextgenagri.com.

Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, and Heiniger Australia and New Zealand. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.

Check out Heiniger's product range HERE
Check out the MSD range HERE
Check out Allflex products HERE

How do we get the next generation onto farms while helping established farmers transition out? In this episode of Head Shepherd, Mark chats with Sarah How, co-founder of Landify and New Zealand finalist for the Zanda McDonald Award.

Sarah shares her journey from family farming in Mid-Canterbury to launching a platform that connects farmers, aspiring landowners, and investors. Sarah co-founded Landify after years of working in agronomy and research when she saw firsthand the challenges both young farmers and retiring landowners faced. Transitioning from a stable career to entrepreneurship wasn’t without its challenges, but with a passion for problem-solving and a belief in the power of partnerships, Sarah is determined to reshape the future of farm ownership.

Mark and Sarah discuss what’s next for the platform- Whether you’re a farmer looking to transition, an investor curious about opportunities, or someone dreaming of owning a farm, this episode is packed with insights to help you take the next step.

https://www.landify.co.nz/

Head Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited. We help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best: info@nextgenagri.com.

Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, and Heiniger Australia and New Zealand. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.

Check out Heiniger's product range HERE
Check out the MSD range HERE
Check out Allflex products HERE