Our Story
After years working closely with Australian livestock operations, we saw the urgent need for a faster, safer, and more accurate livestock identification system. Manual tag checking and poor NLIS reads slowed operations, caused errors, and put staff and animals at risk. While advanced livestock monitoring solutions existed, their high cost made them impractical for large herds. Drawing from the latest in asset tracking technology, we developed UTAGS —
An affordable, livestock identification solution to improve accuracy, streamline workflows, and empower better decision-making.
Vision
To deliver smart, practical solutions that empower farmers and strengthen rural communities.
As a leading brand of Hope Ag, a Brisbane-based, profit-for-purpose enterprise, we are built on a foundation of faith, curiosity, and integrity. Every solution we create not only serves the livestock industry but also helps us support charities that bring hope to people in need.
Mission
Our mission is to advance livestock identification and monitoring to improve accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making across the entire supply chain.
Values
Always doing what’s right, even when no one is watching.
Guided by purpose, conviction, and a belief in greater good.
Speaking honestly, listening deeply, and working transparently with others.
Always learning, asking questions, and exploring better ways to grow.
Founders
A city boy with country town roots, Colin's passion for agriculture was sparked early by his father's love for farming. After graduating as an Agricultural Economist, Colin’s curiosity and willingness to embrace new challenges led him to a diverse career across livestock production, genetics, and technology. Over 25 years ago, Colin pioneered the use of electronic ear tags in pig genetics programs and generated deep expertise in hardware, software, and systems design for livestock identification. Colins heart for farming communities drives his commitment to developing practical tools that improve safety, production efficiency, and costs for rural producers. Working alongside Carl, Colin thrives on their healthy competition for ideas and admires Carl’s passion for helping people and solving real world problems.
Growing up in Far-North-Queensland and with a family heritage in the Gulf country, Carl always knew he wanted to be a Cattle Vet. Following this passion he gained a degree in Vet Science at the Uni of QLD and subsequently undertook PhD research in a field of cattle monitoring technology. Carl continues to provide livestock veterinary services to Australia’s Northern Beef and Dairy industries through his business, RuralVet. With a shared passion for improving livestock outcomes through technology and people, Carl teamed up with Colin and formed Hope Ag where they have jointly developed a range of livestock identification solutions under the brand UTAGS.
Driven by Purpose
UTAGS is a brand of Hope Ag — a profit-for-purpose enterprise built on faith, open communication, and integrity. Our culture is grounded in these values, and we actively support charities that bring hope to those in need.
Organisations That
We Financially Support
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Hope Ventures exists to create stronger, more resilient communities by empowering individuals, equipping families, and supporting ventures that bring lasting impact. Through enterprise, mentorship and social initiatives, Hope Ventures builds hope for people facing challenge and change.
Dolly’s Dream works to create a kinder and safer world by educating and empowering young people and communities to prevent bullying and cyberbullying. Through awareness, support programs and advocacy, Dolly’s Dream builds hope for families navigating mental health challenges and grief.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service provides life-saving emergency aeromedical care and essential health services to Australians living in rural and remote communities. By delivering critical support where it’s needed most, the RFDS builds hope through health, connection, and care across the country.