Posted by Graham Johnstone.
Rotary Health over the years has done outstanding work in caring for youth in promoting training for mental health, recognising symptoms of depression and taking appropriate actions. The COVID 19 pandemic and the discussion on climate change have brought about reports of increasing depression in youth and even primary students.
This bulletin welcomes contributions that can promote positive contributions to a better world, possibly involving youth participation. It was pleasing to see the enthusiasm that our local cubs devoted to the recent 'Clean Up Australia Day', all within the safe environment of scout leaders and Rotarians.
Our meeting of 21st July had a video and presentation from PP Laury Gordyn on his company's massive stock feedlot control system in northern Australia. The system vastly improved the quality and traceability of one of our major exports in beef cattle.
The cattle unfortunately have a reputation of contributing to 20% of methane greenhouse gasses from their belching. The good positive news that has arisen is that these emissions can be virtually eliminated.
A farmer in seaside Canada recently noticed that his cattle from paddocks near the sea had better temperament, weight and general health. He passed his observations on to a scientist friend. It was found that the cattle were eating a small amount (30 grams) of seaweed that stabilised their complex digestive system and even reduced the discomfort of belching. This was then passed to our CSIRO.
A $15 million project has resulted, with finance from Woolworths, Graincorp and others. The particular strain of seaweed can be cultivated in the same way as oysters, giving indigenous employment. This positive discovery will enable us to all have the choice of enjoying red meat without the guilt of causing climate change. Refer to website "future feed" for more. It is great to see an alert farmer convert his observations into a practical solution that could benefit mankind in reduction in greenhouse gasses, improve animal health, food quality and quantity, and reduce the concerns that are alarming youth .
