UNCERTAINTY over the use of virtual fencing for livestock management in New South Wales has been cleared up following a State Government decision to approve the use of the technology for cattle.

Virtual fencing technology uses a combination of audio and mild electric pulse stimulus to motivate cattle to locate as the operator requires.

The NSW Government last year launched an inquiry into virtual fencing, on animal welfare grounds.

NSW Farmers animal welfare committee chair Rob McIntosh said state agriculture minister Tara Moriarty’s announcement this week was a sign of positive change on the horizon for many farmers across the state.

“Across Australia and even the world, farmers are already making the most of virtual fencing, and it’s about time we do the same here in NSW,” Mr McIntosh said.

“This technology can save lives by helping move livestock to safe areas in floods, fires or other natural disasters, without putting humans or animals at risk.

“It can also help reduce fencing costs, control noxious weeds and help with a whole other host of things on-farm – there’s almost no boundaries to what this technology can do.”

Mr McIntosh said regulations must be introduced swiftly to ensure the technology could be rolled out across NSW, with many harbouring hope the technology could also soon be extended for use on other livestock.

“These fences are a game changer for farmers, and we are excited about the opportunities they provide for livestock management in NSW,” he said.

“Enabling us to use this technology with cattle is a real leap forward, and we hope that the technology can be developed and rolled out for use with other livestock in the future.

“Tools like this will unlock productivity gains for our industry, so we can put more homegrown food on Aussie tables, more often.”

Source: NSW Farmers