​​​​Never seeing himself as a so-called “expert”, Michael believes there is always more to learn. As a mature student, he began a Bachelor of Agriculture by distance education with the University of New England; specialising in ‘Avian Physiology’ and ‘Poultry Production’.

Michael's formal qualifications include:
Diploma of Agriculture
Advanced Diploma of Agribusiness Management
Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment
Certificate IV in Agriculture
Certificate IV in Business Management

Member of:
Ag Institute Australia
​World's Poultry Science Association​

ABOUT

​Michael Sommerlad

​Michael has over 40 years poultry and agricultural experience, including four years working within Australia’s intensive chicken meat industry.

Since 2001 Michael has operated his independent consultancy Poultry Works Pty. Ltd. working with conventional, organic, and free-range poultry producers in Australia and overseas.

He has established a reputation for delivering innovative and sustainable outcomes in challenging production environments, and is acknowledged by industry representative groups, businesses, educational organisations, and media as a leading technical adviser in this field.

His particular areas of interest and expertise are centred around the interactions between genetics, physiology, behaviour and environment in extensive production systems, with an emphasis on optimising animal welfare outcomes.​