shortcourse

We bought a farmlet!

A short course for hobby farm enthusiasts

Over 50 people have attended this class

Description

For ages 14 and above.

Caring for livestock in small acreage systems can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but also a new one for those who find themselves owning livestock for the first time. 

This short course will guide participants in how to cater for the needs of the different livestock species in small acreage systems. Some of the points that will be included during the session will be handling methods, common husbandry practices, housing and nutrition, as well as preventative health considerations. 

Led by experts in the field, this morning will be filled with hands on experience as well as opportunities to ask questions and discuss the needs of our livestock animals.  


With a focus on sheep, goats, cattle, alpacas, pigs, the key learning outcomes will be: 

 

  • Outline appropriate nutrition and water requirements for different livestock species
  • Housing requirements for different livestock species
  • Primary health requirements and husbandry practices for the different livestock species 
  • Strategies for low stress handling methods and handling livestock safely  
  • Strategies to promote natural behaviours in paddock environments  
  • Traceability of stock requirements within Victoria


Activities will include:

  • Conducting a paddock walk viewing housing and fencing options, space allocations as well as supplementary feeding methods
  •  Goat handling – how to inspect a hoof
  •  Handling animals using field of vision and point of balance
  •  Conducting a health check – conduct a body condition score of sheep, as well as conduct a visual health inspection
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What you will learn

  • Learn appropriate nutrition and water requirements for different species
  • Learn about the primary health requirements and husbandry practices for the different species
  • Learn how to handle livestock safely – simple handling practices and the traceability requirements for livestock in Victoria

What you will get

  • certificate of attendance

What to bring

  • Bring a notebook and pen

What to wear

Closed in shoes for admittance into the barn. Weather appropriate clothing for outdoors

Appropriate for

Those interested in running a hobby farm or livestock and current hobby farmers looking to increase their knowledge and skill base.


RSPCA Victoria

4.7
(1109 Reviews)

Want to improve your animal skills? Looking for quality teaching by industry experts? Want real skills and training?

Whether you’re a pet owner or thinking of a career in animal care, RSPCA Victoria has a short course to extend your animal skills and understanding.

Designed to develop new skills for anyone dealing with animals; RSPCA short courses provide valuable access to industry experts and utilise quality resources and trainers in an informative and hands-on environment.

As the trusted name in animal welfare in Victoria, we understand what animals need, and what works and what doesn’t – and are keen to share our practical knowledge and skills with you through.

 

Gain professional skills. Learn about your pet. Or both!

Programs are tailored for those wanting to enter the animal industry or improve their skills within this field, as well as helping people to increase their skills with their own pets.

Hands-on experience is essential to understanding animals so you will have the chance to meet and work with – animals from our education team – as well as learn from industry experts and qualified trainers.

And of course, profits raised go towards supporting animal welfare projects. You’re helping animals while you learn to… help animals!

So book your course with us today.

 

About RSPCA Victoria

We are a non-government, community based charity that works to prevent cruelty to animals by actively promoting their care and protection. RSPCA Victoria was established in Melbourne in 1871. Since this time, the RSPCA has become Australia's leading animal welfare charity.

Our community services include work in education, advocacy, animal care and protection. In Victoria, we operate nine animal Adoption Care Centres and one community pet care centre, providing refuge and care to more than 20,000 animals every year. 

As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on community support to care for 'all creatures great and small'.  More than 90% of our funding is due to the generous support of the Victorian community.

For further information, visit www.rspcavic.org 

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4.8 (26 reviews)
Steph rated it
25 Jun 2023
I found this a really beneficial introductory class to understand what is required when having livestock. The teachers Jess and Rachel were so knowledgeable, upbeat and helpful. The best thing about the class is that it is hands on and interactive, we were able to practice certain skills talked about on the animals which was fantastic. Definitely recommend for anyone who has or is thinking about owning farm animals.
RSPCA Victoria 30 Jun 2023

Thank you Steph for your review. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed the session, and you are all ready to put some of that new knowledge and skills into practice! 

All the best with your farmlet adventures! 


Warmly,

RSPCA Education Team

Stuartrated it
25 Jun 2023
An excellent introduction to animal care for those who have just entered, or entering into, the world of small farming.
RSPCA Victoria 30 Jun 2023

Thank you Stuart for your review. It was a pleasure to have you join us for this session and wish you all the very best with your farmlet adventures moving forward!


Warmly,

RSPCA Education Team 

Nikkirated it
25 Jun 2023
Rating Only
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Cancellations & Refunds

If the organiser cancels the class:

You are entitled to a full refund.

If you can't attend the class:

  • A refund can be requested 7 days before class starts. Free of charge.
  • A transfer can be requested 7 days before the class starts. Free of charge.
  • A credit note can be requested 7 days before the class starts. Free of charge.

No changes will be allowed after these times.

We recommend the refund upgrade option upon checkout in case you’re not able to attend the class. Learn more about refund upgrade option.

Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions - Face to Face courses

  • Program activities are conducted by RSPCA Victoria Education Officers and staff. RSPCA Victoria reserves the right to alter activities or cease programs should staff and participant safety be compromised.
  • For safety reasons, participants must wear appropriate clothing and closed-in shoes. 
  • RSPCA Victoria reserves the right to cancel the class should minimum numbers not be met.  A full refund will apply in these circumstances. 

DISCLAIMER

Participants may be involved in a range of hands-on activities during training. While the RSPCA takes all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of participants, all participants engage with these activities at their own risk.

By enrolling in these programs you acknowledge that you understand this disclaimer and release RSPCA (Victoria) and its employees, agents, volunteers and contractors from any liability whatsoever, to the extent permitted by law.


Terms and Conditions - Online On Demand Courses

The above does not apply. Please contact education@rspcavic.org.au for assistance. 

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