A COUNCIL-maintained predator fence in south-east Queensland has been rebuilt as a major barrier against feral animals including wild dogs.
AgForce Sheep and Wool president Sandy Smith inspected a section of the fence midway between Inglewood and Millmerran last week, as the region's livestock producers continue their long-running war against feral predators.
"It's very heartening to see this section of the fence, at least, to be in excellent condition," Mr Smith said. "There had been reports that the fence was full of holes and was no longer effective.
"I am very pleased to see just how much work has gone into making this fence a real barrier."
The section of the fence Mr Smith inspected is maintained by the Toowoomba Regional Council.
Mr Smith said landholders on both sides of the fence faced a constant battle keeping wild dogs under control.
"There are now so many dogs on both sides of the fence.
"Going by the number of tracks we have seen today, there is a potentially major problem in this forestry country. We have to keep up baiting, shooting and trapping ... to get on top of dogs.
"At least the fence provides a line we can work from and if maintained in this condition, should act as a very effective barrier."
The netting fence was originally constructed in the 1950s. It features a 300mm apron to deter pest animals from digging under the fence. There is also an electric wire fitted to the fence about 100mm from the ground, adding to the barrier's effectiveness.
Some sections of the fence have been renovated with four new wires, including a top wire to help suspend the netting. Netting patches were also obvious on some sections of the fence.
Canning Creek cattle producer Jeff Chandler, who has country inside the fence adjacent the Bringalily State Forest, said he saw dog tracks regularly on the sandy track running along the outside of the fence.
"I don't see the dogs themselves that much, but there are usually fresh tracks along this side of the fence two or three times a week," he said. "My biggest concerns are actually about pigs and roos. I am just pleased we have this fence and it is doing its job."
CHECK FENCE KEY FACTS
- Toowoomba Regional Council Pest Management Advisory Committee chairwoman Councillor Anne Glasheen said TRC managed an 81km section of the 392km wild dog check fence near Millmerran.
- Goondiwindi and Western Downs Regional Councils managed the balance of the fence.
- Ms Glasheen said $559,000 was spent on maintenance in 2013-14 on the TRC section including flood repairs, capital improvements and ongoing operational works.
- "Since 2013-14, 4km of existing fencing was replaced, along with 56km of upgrades, including replacement of bottom and mid wires and foot netting," Ms Glasheen said.
- "Two grids were upgraded and two creek crossings repaired to minimise further erosion during storm and flood events.
- "A further 5.5km of fencing, one grid and three creek crossings have been identified in council's condition assessments to be upgraded or replaced within the next two years."
- Last year a Green Army program also offered eight local people an opportunity to learn the skill of fencing and maintenance through a fully supervised works program, she said.
- The fence is inspected fortnightly. Issues with the fence can be reported to the Toowoomba Regional Council on 131 872. Markers have been placed at 1km intervals to assist in identifying problem areas.
