Calls for virtual fencing to be legalised in NSW have cometo a head as the state's peak farming body fronted a NSW government inquiryinto the matter.
Appearing at a hearing held as part of the inquiry onFriday, NSW Farmers Animal Welfare Committee chair Robert McIntosh said virtualfencing had a significant range of benefits that farmers could access if thetechnology was legalized for use in NSW.
"Thescience and technology behind virtual fencing indicates this tool hassignificant benefits for animal welfare, while also delivering better economicreturns for farmers through grazing efficiencies," Mr McIntosh said.
"In theevent of floods, fires and other natural disasters, this technology could well beused to help move livestock to safe areas, without putting humans or animals atrisk.
"Reducedfencing costs and enabling noxious weeds to be fenced off and controlled arejust two of other benefits of virtual fencing which we could see farmers ableto take advantage of if the technology was legalised in NSW.
"In reality,the sky's the limit when it comes to what's possible with this tool - we justneed to be able to use it."
With thetechnology already permitted for commercial use in a number of other states, MrMcIntosh said it was critical NSW legislation was amended to enable farmers totake advantage of virtual fencing within the state.
"AcrossAustralia and even the world, farmers are reaping the rewards of virtualfencing - so it's time for NSW to come up to speed," Mr McIntosh said.
"Virtual fencing has greatpotential for the sustainability of the natural environment in which we farm,as well as the human resources of our farmers, so it could well prove criticalto increasing efficiencies within our industry.
"We need toput more food on tables and more clothes on backs than ever before in history -so the hunt is on to find new ways and new technologies to help us feed thefuture."
