Tyranny of distance can be removed with new technology
MANAGING a livestock business in western Queensland is a significant undertaking - but new remote monitoring technology can help ease the tyranny of distance for producers.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, through the Leading Sheep initiative, is organising field days in St George, Morven, Isisford and Longreach in June to profile the latest in remote monitoring and how pastoral businesses are integrating the technology into their enterprises.
"Remote monitoring means that producers can check on water, stock and fencing without leaving the house,” DAF senior extension officer Nicole Sallur said.
"This can free up valuable time, means that false alarms don't waste hours, and ultimately the business can run more efficiently.
"It also means that producers can leave their property and still keep an eye on what's happening - or take a much-needed holiday.”
Producers will be able to hear from those who have already integrated remote monitoring into their business, including Dirranbandi's Duncan Banks, and where it works best for their purposes.
"Duncan combines a commercial-style water meter with communication technology to remotely monitor 30 water troughs on his 4000-hectare property Dunwold.
"Data transmitted by a two-way radio to Duncan's computer and mobile phone shows the highs and lows of water flow - reducing the time and labour costs of water monitoring,” Ms Sallur said.
There will also be a range of displays from companies providing remote monitoring equipment, including technology for monitoring water and electric fences, as well as cameras and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The cost of the field day is $20 per person, which includes smoko and lunch. To register log on to www.leadingsheep.com.au by June 14.
Leading Sheep is a joint initiative of Australian Wool Innovation and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland, supported by AgForce.
It is a proactive network of Queensland sheep and wool businesses at the forefront of practical and relevant information and technology, to equip progressive and thriving producers for the future.
FIELD DAYS
Monday, June 19: Balonne Skill Centre, St George, 9.30am-1.30pm
Tuesday, June 20: Morven Racecourse, 8.30am-12.30pm
Wednesday, June 21: Isisford Showgrounds, 10am-3pm
Thursday, June 22: Rosebank Shearing Shed Longreach, 10am-3pm
