Travelling livestock and agistment

Dry conditions has seen North Burnett Regional Council continue to receive enquiries about travelling stock permits.  Mayor Cr Rachel Chambers confirmed that Council is currently reviewing two travelling stock applications for several hundred head to be walked through the North Burnett west of Mundubbera and Eidsvold.  These herds are from both local properties and from New South Wales.

The Queensland Government has a network of dedicated stock routes under the Stock Route Management Act which also includes roads by definition.  Council manages the permit system on behalf of the State.

Stock Routes and water reserves over which a Permit to Occupy is held, is still considered to be a Stock Route and can be utilised by travelling stock.  A drover is however required to give 48 hours notice to those holding a Permit to Occupy if appropriate signage for the Permit and who to contact is displayed.

Cr Chambers advised that some property managers have expressed concern about biosecurity matters and notification requirements.

“With biosecurity issues such as noxious weeds being a concern to both Council and residents, Council staff will attempt to identify routes with minimal declared weeds appropriate for use,” Cr Chambers said.

“Weeds such as African Lovegrass, which is widespread and not scheduled as an invasive species by the State under the Biosecurity Act 2014, will remain of high concern.”

It is important to note that Council can only refuse an application for travelling stock if there is no pasture or water to sustain stock during the period of the permit or if there is a biosecurity risk (declarable weed or reportable disease only).

“A refusal for permit can however be reviewed and overturned by the Government Department responsible for the Act,” concluded Cr Chambers.

Further information on agistment and travelling stock permits can be obtained through Council’s Natural Resources Management Team on 1300 696 272 (1300 MY NBRC) or email admin@northburnett.qld.gov.au.