Wandering livestock a safety concern

Published on 02 April 2019

Gannawarra Shire Council is urging livestock owners to ensure their animals are well secured.

The number of stray livestock callouts Council Local Laws officers have attended so far this year has increased compared to previous years, with three collisions involving motor vehicles or trains occurring.

“The prolonged dry period and a lack of pasture is a key factor, with stock trying to roam to find more food,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“A 500-kilogram cow seeking food on the other side of a fence is no match for fences that are not in adequate condition.

“Wandering livestock are also a danger for motorist, with incidents costing time, money, and in the worst case scenario, lives.”

Landowners can play a role in preventing livestock from roaming by ensuring fences are in an adequate condition.

It is an offence to keep livestock on any property which is not securely fenced. Stock owners can be fined up to $8050 for allowing livestock to escape onto public roads.

“Stock owners and keepers have legal obligations to ensure their livestock do not stray onto highways or roads and we would take this opportunity to remind residents that they are responsible for damages caused by wandering stock,” Mayor Learmonth said.