Telstra-backed startup accelerator muru-D is building a software platform aimed at transforming livestock production through an easy-to-use data collection app that collects on-farm data to make a farm more efficient, profitable and compliant.
Telstra says its investment in new technology through muru-D’s AgriWebb is designed to help farmers in Wagga Wagga and around Australia transform how they manage their livestock farms.
AgriWebb provides mentoring and investment to early stage technology companies and co-founder John Fargher said that the technology digitises farm records which then allows farmers to make data-driven decisions leading to increased productivity, efficiency and profits.
“If a farmer follows a set of best practice techniques, the science tells us that livestock production can increase between 20-30%. As an example, the mortality rate for lambs between pregnancy scanning and lamb marking is 30-40%, which equates to 13.8 million deaths every year. This represents about $2 billion dollars in lost revenue every year,” Fargher said.
{loadposition peter}“AgriWebb provides farmers with the ability to manage their livestock in a more efficient manner. Used effectively we can make a big dent in the current level of lost revenue being experienced and give farmers greater control over their productivity and results.
“We build our software in consultation with Australian farmers (including customers in Wagga Wagga) and industry stakeholders to ensure we are creating tools farmers want and that the industry needs. As a team we’re excited to be part of Telstra’s muru-D program. As a later stage company we see benefit in the business mentoring and investor network that is offered as part of the program.”
Telstra Area General Manager Chris Taylor said the investment in companies like AgriWebb showcased Telstra’s commitment to bringing new technology solutions to regional Australia.
“Telstra is investing through muru-D in early stage technologies that will revolutionise the Australian agricultural industry, which is so important for our regional areas.
“It is exciting to see new technology being developed to benefit farmers. Whether you’re talking about using new devices like drones and satellites, or connecting existing equipment like harvesters, our mobile network empowers you to get the full benefits from technology.
“That’s why Telstra is committed to improving and extending coverage in regional areas. “We have announced plans that could see up to $1 billion of investment and co-investment in our regional mobile infrastructure over the next five years. I’m excited to see how Telstra can work with customers and innovators like AgriWebb to make this most of the opportunities this technology can bring.”