Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News
Farmers To Tackle Wild Dog IssuesFarmers from Ensay and Omeo have banded together to form two local Wild Dog Action Groups (WDAG) to help farming communities manage the problem of wild dogs in their districts By Department of Primary Industries - 11th September 2009 - Back to News Department of Primary Industries’ Community Engagement Officer, Vaughn Kingston said these are proactive farmers with a collective history of community involvement, building wild dog fences and shooting; and supporting government baiting and trapping programs.
"This is an ongoing and difficult problem to resolve as wild dogs opportunistically attack what they see as a ‘ready made’ food supply distressing many farmers physically and financially," Mr Kingston said.
"In some instances, these impacts have been a catalyst for an increasing trend towards cattle farming in lieu of sheep, which in turn has led to more reports of attacks on calves.
"The WDAG farmers have personally experienced losses and clearly understand the problem of wild dogs shared by other landholders.
"They’re also aware of many economic, seasonal, environmental, changing animal behaviours and competition factors that may influence dog movement and attacks, particularly after fire or drought.
"These farmers are keen to find solutions for overcoming some of the physical barriers many landholders experience when trying to put strategies in place to prevent wild dog attacks.
"For example, difficult terrain makes it harder to build effective dog proof fences; understanding which type of fencing works best for a given business enterprise; damage caused by other wildlife; and what to do if your neighbour happens to be an absentee landowner.
"Another problem might be a landholder may have done the requisite training for Agricultural Chemical Users Permit (ACUP), but lacks knowledge on the best way to lay 1080 baits on farm or as part of an intensive baiting strategy across a geographic area."
Both Omeo and Ensay WDAG groups have been pooling ideas for their respective localities.
Ideas include offering local knowledge and improving communication; potential ways to support wild dog controllers with baiting and trapping; the use of companion animals; access to fencing funding, and special training days and seminars for affected landholders.
The WDAG was established through the Gippsland Wild Dog Management Group, a representative body of private landholders and public land managers, and the project is funded through the Australian Government’s ‘Caring for our Country’ initiative.
For more information, please contact Brian Dowley on 5152 0476 or Jenny O’Sullivan on 0427 086 087.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
Related Articles- Farmers warn Woolworths' green-and-gold Hillview butter misleads consumers and undercuts Australian dairy
Australian dairy farmers warn Woolworths' green-and-gold Hillview butter misleads consumers, undercuts local producers, and risks jobs, as imported US butter competes with declining domestic dairy production. - David Littleproud says farmers won major victory after Labor abandoned its plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds
Nationals Leader David Littleproud says farmers have won a major victory after Labor abandoned its plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds. - South Gippsland farmers dig into practical carbon farming at Down to Earth field day
Thirty-five South Gippsland farmers explored carbon farming at Malabar Farm, learning practical ways to improve soil health, reduce emissions, and farm sustainably while sharing knowledge with peers. - Darren Chester honours Gippsland farmers and workers on National Agriculture Day for vital regional contributions
Darren Chester has praised Gippsland’s farmers and agricultural workers on National Agriculture Day, recognising their resilience, vital economic contribution and essential role in sustaining local communities and ensuring ongoing food security. - Melina Bath celebrates Victorian farmers’ dedication and contributions during National Agriculture Week 2025
The Nationals’ Melina Bath highlights Victorian farmers’ hard work, resilience, and vital contributions during National Agriculture Week, urging support for primary producers and celebrating their role in communities and the economy. - David Littleproud urges Australians to support local farmers amid rising imported food and supermarket pressures
Nationals Leader David Littleproud urges Australians to buy local food as farmers face soaring costs, supermarket pressures, and rising imports, warning inaction threatens food security and the future of Australian agriculture. - Southern Rural Water supports South West Victorian farmers through groundwater access and the 'Farmer Helping Farmer' initiative
A section of the Main Northern Channel near Brewers Hill Road, Maffra, damaged by wombats, has been repaired. Water will return to full capacity, and normal delivery will resume tomorrow. - East Gippsland Water donates hay to support farmers through Lions Club ‘Need for Feed’ program
East Gippsland Water donated two semi loads of hay to support drought-affected farmers in Victoria’s south-west, demonstrating sustainability, community support, and its commitment to recycling and environmental stewardship. - Agriculture advisory committee supports East Gippsland farmers through collaboration and regional advocacy initiatives
The Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee advises on policies, programs, and partnerships to support East Gippsland farmers, addressing biosecurity, water security, pest management, and regional agricultural priorities for a resilient sector. - Baw Baw Shire to host community barbecues supporting farmers through 'Look Over the Farm Gate' grants
Baw Baw Shire Council will host five community barbecues supporting farmers' wellbeing through Look Over the Farm Gate grants, offering connection, resources, and mental health support amid ongoing dry conditions. - David Littleproud urges Labor to deliver interest-free loans as farmers voice urgent drought forum concerns
Nationals leader David Littleproud says the Drought Forum reinforced urgent calls for interest-free farm loans, urging Labor to act swiftly as farmers face worsening hardship, particularly in South Australia's dairy industry. - East Gippsland residents urged to foster dogs as Animal Aid Bairnsdale faces unprecedented influx and resource strain
Animal Aid Bairnsdale urges East Gippsland residents to foster dogs as rising numbers strain shelter capacity. Support, resources, and costs are provided, ensuring dogs receive safety, love, and a chance at adoption. - Latrobe unites to tackle gambling harm during awareness week: 'Set Before You Bet' 2025
Latrobe City Council is urging residents to take part in Gambling Harm Awareness Week (27 Oct - 2 Nov) and "Set before you bet" by learning to recognise signs and reduce gambling harm. - Darren Chester praises Cowwarr artist Jo Caminiti and her metal kelpies ‘Railway Dog’ to be unveiled in Glengarry on 22 March 2026
Three life-sized metal kelpie sculptures by Cowwarr artist Jo Caminiti will be installed along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail, celebrating the legendary Railway Dog story and boosting tourism. - East Gippsland Shire Council issues additional ferry passes for Raymond Island landowners and renters ahead of new system
East Gippsland Council will mail additional 2025/26 ferry passes to Raymond Island landowners and renters, ensuring fairness while developing a new sticker-based pass system launching August 2026. - Omeo celebrates opening of 114 km world-class mountain bike park set to transform regional adventure tourism
Omeo has opened a $10 million, 114-kilometre mountain bike park, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and celebrating new streetscape and flood-recovery works that strengthen the town’s recreation spaces and future growth. - Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens, offering 114km trails, boosting local tourism, recreation, and economy
Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens Friday, featuring 114 km trails, community events, amenities, and safety measures, transforming the town into a year-round alpine adventure and tourism destination. - Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens, delivering world-class trails, boosting tourism, community, and local economy
Omeo’s 114-kilometre, $10 million mountain bike park has officially opened, offering world-class trails, boosting tourism, energising local businesses, and celebrating years of community vision, planning, and collaboration. - Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens 5 December , boosting tourism, economy, and year-round adventure opportunities
Omeo’s new mountain bike park officially opens December 5, creating a year-round adventure destination, boosting tourism, supporting the local economy, and celebrating community collaboration with a full weekend of events. - Meet with South Gippsland Mayor Hersey to discuss ideas or issues that matter to you and your community and other council updates
South Gippsland Shire Council is offering multiple opportunities for community engagement, upcoming events, free workshops, grants, vaccination sessions, and council services throughout Summer 2026 for residents and local businesses. - Omeo gains new modular worker accommodation, supporting healthcare staff and strengthening regional community
Omeo District Health's new modular worker accommodation is underway, providing housing for healthcare staff, supporting regional jobs, and helping the town attract and retain doctors, nurses, and essential workers. - Omeo Justice Precinct draft masterplan unveiled to preserve heritage, enhance community use, and boost economy
Omeo Mountain Bike Park opens December with over 100km of world-class trails, boosting tourism, jobs, and community pride. Final touches, shuttles, and events promise an inclusive, adventure-filled destination. - Omeo Mountain Bike Trails update - new website, shuttle services, and summer 114km launch
Omeo Mountain Bike Trails has launched a new website and shuttle services, with 40 km open now and the full 114 km network officially debuting this summer for riders nationwide. - Omeo tourism report and investment prospectus highlight opportunities for growth and visitor experiences
The newly released Omeo Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Investment Prospectus highlight opportunities for investors, showcasing growth potential in hospitality, services, visitor experiences, and adventure tourism in Victoria’s alpine region. - Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment. - Have your say on the 2027 transition to Pre-Prep and help shape early learning in South Gippsland
South Gippsland Shire Council is seeking feedback from parents and carers to help shape how the Victorian government's 2027 Pre-Prep program is delivered locally to meet community needs. - Danny O'Brien urges Allan Labor government to fix online rebate issues affecting CFA and SES volunteers' access to support
Danny O'Brien has urged the Allan Labor Government to fix the online-only rebate system, saying CFA and SES volunteers struggle to access support and deserve easier, paper-based application options. - Have Your Say on Wonthaggi structure plan review aiming to guide growth, community needs and opportunities
Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing the Wonthaggi Structure Plan. Have your say on the town's growth, housing, jobs, heritage, and future opportunities to help shape Wonthaggi as Bass Coast regional hub. - Have your say on East Gippsland public toilets review until 9 February 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council invites residents and visitors to share feedback on Council-managed public toilets, helping improve cleanliness, accessibility, and maintenance through its Public Amenities Service Review, open until February 2026. - Have your say on key council plans, policies, and the future direction of South Gippsland through current engagement opportunities
South Gippsland Shire Council invites community feedback on key draft plans, policies, and the 2026/27 Budget, with in-person engagement opportunities and "Coffee with a Councillor" sessions in October. - Have your say on the draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy balance road access, submit by 28 September 2025
Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its Draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy, aiming to balance vibrant business activity with safe pedestrian access. Consultation runs 29 August - 28 September on Baw Baw Connect. - Tim Bull says kangaroo overpopulation devastates farms, with permits insufficient to protect crops and livelihoods
Gippsland farmers face severe crop damage from exploding kangaroo populations. MP Tim Bull urges urgent permit reforms to allow practical, case-by-case management, protecting livelihoods and ensuring ongoing food production. - Gippsland's diverse landscapes and bold winemakers offering flavours as varied and unforgettable as the region itself
From wild coastlines to rugged ranges, Gippsland delivers bold landscapes and diverse wines. At Eat Drink Play Gippsland, explore unique flavours, passionate winemakers, and stories bottled across this Switzerland-sized wine region. - Free Gippsland workshop with Tony Evans on maximising dairy effluent through composting and sustainability
Gippsland dairy farmers are invited to a free workshop with Tony Evans on effluent management, exploring composting, fermentation, and biogas to boost sustainability, save money, and reduce reliance on external nutrients. - Latrobe City Council launches 'Kindness is key' campaign to empower students and tackle bullying together
Latrobe City Council launched the Kindness is Key: Stop Bullying campaign, co-designed with students to promote kindness, upstander training, and community action against bullying across local schools. - AFL investigating alleged racism at Omeo District grand final following online video reports
AFL is investigating alleged racism at the Omeo District grand final after online videos surfaced. MP Tim Bull condemned the behaviour, stressing racism is unacceptable and must never be tolerated in community sport. - East Gippsland invites community input to shape Omeo district place plan and future local priorities
East Gippsland Council invites Omeo district residents to provide feedback via workshops and surveys, shaping the new Place Plan to reflect local priorities, guide council actions, and strengthen community engagement. - Darren Chester welcomes nearing completion of $2.2M Ensay Recreation Reserve redevelopment project
Darren Chester welcomed nearing completion of the $2.2 million Ensay Recreation Reserve redevelopment, praising community volunteers. The project delivers modern facilities, boosting sport, tourism, resilience, and connections. - Future of Orbost Project strengthens water access, supporting agricultural innovation and long-term regional growth
The Future of Orbost Project supports farmers by clarifying water availability, facilitating licence transfers, and building resilience, driving innovation, productivity, diversification, and sustainable long-term growth in East Gippsland. - Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve officially opens during Omeo District Football Netball League Grand Finals celebrations on Saturday
Swifts Creek will celebrate the official opening of its $2.9 million upgraded recreation reserve during the Omeo District Football Netball League Grand Final on Saturday, 6 September 2025. - Tim Bull encourages local groups to apply for grants supporting veterans, preserving war memorials and heritage by 3 February 2026
Tim Bull urges local organisations to apply by 3 February 2026 for grants supporting veterans and conserving war memorials and community heritage. - Free visitor information materials help East Gippsland businesses guide visitors quickly and easily summer
East Gippsland Shire Council is providing free QR-code posters, stickers and magnets to help businesses quickly connect visitors with maps, attractions, events and essential information via the Visit East Gippsland website. - Carbon Calculator Events for farm emissions, accounting, and carbon farming insights for farmers
Attend the free Carbon Calculator Events on 28 October and 11 November 2025 in Traralgon to learn carbon farming, accounting, and estimate your farm's emissions footprint. Registration required. - Shop Local in South Gippsland to strengthen community, support jobs, and keeping our economy thriving together everyday
Shopping locally in South Gippsland strengthens our economy, supports jobs, services, and community groups. Every dollar spent locally multiplies impact, with increased spending boosting growth by millions annually. Shop Local South Gippsland. - Tim Bull says locals and community groups want stronger enforcement as illegal campers leave areas unkempt
Tim Bull urges Environment Minister Dimopoulos to act on illegal campers along the Snowy River, balancing public access for tourists with enforcement and welfare oversight to protect local businesses. - Bass Coast Shire Council celebrates local community groups’ achievements and grants at inspiring event
Bass Coast Council celebrated 92 local community groups, awarding $294,000 in grants, including $40,000 for climate projects, supporting creativity, connection, and resilience across the region at a vibrant celebration.
|
|
