Phil Donato inspecting a virtual fencing collar with a member of Gallagher’s R&D team at the company’s research facility in south-east Queensland.
Member for Orange Philip Donato MP has last week (8 February 2024) taken the next step towards legalising virtual stock fencing in NSW, delivering his second reading speech in the NSW Parliament, advancing the independent’s member’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024.
“The platform upon which I was first elected included representing the interests and needs of farmers, and I have remained true to my commitment – the record reflecting the vigorous advocacy I’ve made on behalf of farmers across the state during my representative tenure,” said Mr Donato.
“Today I delivered my second reading speech in the NSW Legislative Assembly, advancing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024 to the next stage – maintaining my commitment in representing farmers’ needs.
“Farming has influenced the shape and definition of country people and their communities, and now technological progression shapes and defines farming practices, including farmers’ stewardship of the land and husbandry of the livestock they nurture.
“Virtual fencing is broadly supported by an increasingly modernised and progressive farming community, cattle farmers in particular, who recognise the many benefits this innovative technology has proven to deliver.
“Virtual fencing technology stands to revolutionise livestock farming; Virtual fencing is an innovative system which enables livestock farmers to create virtual boundaries, without the need for physical internal property fencing.
“Virtual fencing is invisible and somewhat intangible. The virtual boundary is created on a computer program using GPS technology, for the purpose of confining stock animals to a pre-determined area without using traditional fixed fencing.
“Stock animals are fitted with a solar-chargeable battery powered neck collar, and when the stock animal approaches the pre-determined boundary, the collar emits an audible cue followed by a safe electrical stimulus to deter the animal from the virtual fence line. The energy of the stimulus delivered by the collar is less than that of a standard electric fence.
“Last week I visited Gallagher Animal Management’s Queensland facility to see their virtual fencing technology in operation; it was beneficial to see the system’s effectiveness and learn firsthand the capabilities of this innovative livestock farming tool.
“The visit to this research facility reinforced my support for this technology and pursuit of the legislative reform required to legalise this innovative farming practice.
“Legislators need embrace scientific research-supported technological advancements in agriculture, indeed all industries. A vote for this bill is a show of support for the needs of our livestock farmers, who are eagerly waiting to lawfully access this innovative tool which benefits the environment, animal management and ag business in equal measure.
“The NSW Parliament will debate and vote on this bill in sittings next month,” said Mr Donato.