Abstract:
Preface Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia 1997 The papers in this volume are a record of the fourteenth symposium in this series held between 30 June and 2 July 1997. These papers have not been formally refereed for scientific content. The views expressed are those of the individual authors who have been encouraged to include their most recent information and speculations to promote discussion and synthesis of new hypotheses. The material presented here may be published elsewhere at a later date. The contributions of all speakers and those chairing the scientific sessions are greatly appreciated. A particular welcome is extended to our overseas speakers: Andrew Chesson, Mike Bedford, David Little and John Pluske. Specially named events In 1997 we have introduced four named events during the conference to recognise the exceptional contribution made to this symposium series over the years by four distinguished colleagues. David Farrell was the editor and the principal organizer for most of the symposia held between 1973 and 1993. As a scientist who has worked in both ruminant and monogastric nutrition he was the ideal convener and organizer for a symposium of this nature. The high regard in which this symposium is now held by nutritionists throughout Australia is testimony to David's commitment over the years. David's contribution to the 1997 symposium will be to present the first David Farrell lecture. Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia. He has played an important role in developing the ruminant side of the programmes and has always contributed to the open and robust nature of the scientific debate which has become characteristic of this symposium series. In evening lectures and discussion sessions Ron has compiled many new ideas which have challenged conventional thinking and stimulated memorable debate. His contribution in 1997 is to present the fast Ron Leng lecture on Monday evening. Ron Leng has always been one of the driving forces behind Recent Rob Gumming was the founder of poultry research and teaching at UNE and has contributed significantly to this field of science as well as to the success of the Recent Advances series. In 1985 he was the editor and chief organizer. Rob's thorough understanding of all aspects of poultry production has gained him a level of respect in that industry which is afforded to few academics. Rob's papers have always introduced new information and ideas and have focused on industry issues. His often provocative and persuasive contributions to discussion sessions have had an important impact on many meetings. In 1997 he has selected Bob Pym to be the fast Rob Cumming lecturer. Rob will be chairing the section of the conference in which this paper is presented. Frank Annison is widely recognised as the founding father of research and teaching in nutrition and metabolism at UNE. The group which he brought together in the 50s and 60s undertook pioneering research in the field of nutritional biochemistry which is still widely quoted today. With his knowledge of biochemistry, nutrition and animal production, Frank has been able to encompass the ideas of scientists who may have had too narrow a focus in their discipline and has helped others to understand important aspects of biochemistry underlying production responses. Frank is frequently invited to chair scientific meetings and has a legendary ability to stimulate debate. He has made a major contribution to numerous symposia through this skill and at this meeting Frank will be chairing the session on dairy production. The success of Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia 1997 is a credit to the large number of people who have contributed to the planning, to the preparation of the publication and to hosting the meeting itself. It is also due to generous financial assistance from industry. Those that have contributed to the various aspects of Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia 1997 are acknowledged in the following pages. June 1997 James Rowe For the Organising Committee