Roodebloem Livestock Handling Facility
Purpose-built sheep handling with integrated smart monitoring
The Roodebloem Livestock Handling Facility is a purpose-built system designed specifically for efficient sheep handling, accurate animal health management, and the integration of smart farming technology.
The facility was designed by Livetrack SA, combining practical handling principles with modern monitoring solutions to improve workflow, animal welfare, and on-farm decision-making.
Watch the full video demonstration on our YouTube channel.
Designed for Efficient Sheep Flow
The Roodebloem facility is built around one core principle — allowing sheep to move naturally and calmly through the system.
A well-designed layout reduces pressure on animals, improves safety, and enables handlers to work more efficiently. The circular flow and structured pen design support controlled movement through the race, with clearly positioned gates for drafting and handling.
Key benefits of the system include:
- Reduced stress during handling
- Improved safety for both animals and handlers
- Faster processing during routine activities
- Consistent and controlled animal movement
Efficient flow is not just about convenience — it directly impacts animal performance and overall flock management.
Supporting Accurate Animal Health Management
The facility is specifically designed to support routine sheep handling practices such as dosing, inspection, and sorting.
Accurate dosing plays a critical role in:
- Effective parasite control
- Preventing production losses
- Managing resistance over time
- Maintaining overall flock health
The combination of correct equipment and a well-designed handling environment ensures that each animal can be treated accurately and consistently.
Designed with Integrated Technology in Mind
A key strength of the Roodebloem facility is the way it integrates with smart livestock technology.
Livetrack SA, as the designer of the facility, ensured that the system supports:
- Real-time monitoring and animal tracking
- Improved record-keeping and traceability
- Data-driven decision-making
- Better control over flock management processes
This integration allows producers to move beyond basic handling towards a more informed, proactive approach to sheep production.
A Practical Approach to Sheep Production
The Roodebloem Livestock Handling Facility is a practical example of how purpose-built infrastructure, combined with the right technology, can improve everyday farming operations.
The focus remains on what matters most:
- Efficient handling
- Improved animal welfare
- Better decision-making
- Practical, workable systems
These principles can be applied and adapted across a wide range of sheep production systems.
Get in Touch
If you are interested in participating in research activities or would like to make use of the Roodebloem Livestock Handling Facility for research or trials, you are welcome to get in touch with:
- Francois du Toit – Farm Manager, Roodebloem | francoisdt@overbergagri.co.za
- Ruben Badenhorst – Agricultural Advisor, Overberg Agri | rubenb@overbergagri.co.za
- Chris Nel – Agricultural Advisor, Overberg Agri | chrisn@overbergagri.co.za
