Watch Out for Straying Stock

With an increase in road incidents involving wandering livestock Council is urging stock owners to stay alert and ensure stock is secured.

“For the safety of everyone using roads, Council is warning all community members and road users to keep an eye out and slow down if there is stock on or near the road, while stock owners are encouraged to check and fix boundary fences,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Ambrose Doolan. “There has been an increase in the number of incidents on our roads that have been caused from livestock wandering on the roads, so please slow down and be aware.” 

“For stock owners, it is important to consider not only the value of the stock that may be destroyed due to an incident but also the impact on road users,” said Cr Doolan.

Wandering stock is a concern and the consequences for stock owners could be significant, if owners are found to be negligent. A big risk of straying stock can also be the biosecurity risk and owners could potentially be liable for any damage caused. 

“To reduce the risk of stock straying from properties, Council is urging stock owners to ensure boundary fences are stock proof, fences are regularly maintained and checked and all boundary gates are locked. This will help ensure the safety of stock and road users,” said Cr Doolan. 

If you see stock stray onto public land, report it to Council’s Compliance Officers immediately on (02) 6849 2000. If you are able to identify the owner of the stock, make attempts to notify the owner so they may recover the straying stock.

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Last Updated: 29 Apr 2022