PROFILE OF A PROFESSIONAL ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATOR

After finishing year 12, I heard that the local Artificial Breeding (AB) Centre had a traineeship in artifical insemination. The only requirement that I needed was to have a manual drivers licence. Protective clothing and tools were supplied.

This was the ideal job for me as I still wanted to work in the dairy industry, but not as a dairy trainee/apprentices as I had worked on my parents' farm.

The first training the Centre gave me was in Artificial Insemination. This gave me the basic training to work with other experienced AI Technicians, making sure I was placing the semen in the right place and also helping me improve my knowledge in semen handing, reading straws and all areas of hygiene.

Some extra training I received, (and much needed!) was a course in Defensive and Advanced Driving course at Calder Park with Drive Safe Australia. I had only had my licence for 6 months. I'm lucky in the Centre supplies the vehicle for travel.

On a normal day, I get to the Centre about 7.30am and prepare for the days work. I usually have between 5 to 12 farms to visit with between 20 to 70 cows to inseminate. Back at the Centre, I complete the required administration work.

The only down side of the work is the seasonal nature with most work in the late July to November period.