More than 30,000 farmers worldwide trust automated manure cleaning
A clean shed, a healthier herd, and more hours back in the day - these are the things Australian dairy farmers stand to gain from automatic manure cleaning. But knowing the benefits is one thing. Understanding how the right system actually works in practice, and whether it suits your shed and your operation, is where the real conversation begins.
That is exactly what the Lely Discovery Collector is built for.
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How the Lely Discovery Collector works
The Lely Discovery Collector takes a different approach to manure cleaning. Rather than scraping manure across the floor, it collects and removes it - by vacuuming it up and eliminating the build-up that cows would otherwise walk through.
The Collector operates autonomously around the clock, navigating pre-programmed routes throughout the shed. Its compact design allows it to move through tight spaces, small corners, cross alleys, separation areas, and even the waiting area in front of the milking system - places where traditional scrapers often fall short. Built-in sensors allow it to navigate freely without the need for cables or gutters, which also means a cleaner, safer environment for cows.
To help with floor grip and hygiene, the Collector sprays water from the front to assist manure collection, and from the back to wet the floor surface. Routes and cleaning frequency can be adjusted to suit the shed layout and the natural movement patterns of the herd.
Simple to install, easy to live with
All of this can be managed easily from a mobile phone with the Lely Horizon app sending notifications only when maintenance is needed. Many Australian farmers have described their experience with the Collector as being simpler than dedicating a staff to manage the cleaning. Meanwhile, the maintenance has been minimal, with just occasional wash-downs.
One of the more practical advantages of the Discovery Collector is how straightforward it is to set up. Because it only requires a single charging and dumping station, it can be installed in most existing shed designs without major modifications, including sheds running sand or other bedding materials.
Worth considering
Automatic manure cleaning is not a new idea, but it is becoming an increasingly relevant one for Australian dairy farmers navigating labour pressures, rising input costs, and the drive to run a healthier, more efficient operation.
With over 20 years of automatic manure cleaning experience behind it, Lely's approach is well-proven. More than 30,000 farmers around the world are already using automated manure cleaning solutions, and the technology continues to improve.
The Lely Discovery Collector offers a proven, low-maintenance solution that works with the natural flow of the shed and the animals in it. For farms already running automatic milking systems, it complements the wider move toward a more automated, less labour-dependent operation. And for farms considering that step, it is a worthwhile place to start the conversation.
To find out more or to speak with your local Lely Centre, visit lely.com/au.
Disclaimer: Results may vary between farming operations and individual circumstances.
