WITH many primary producers out checking fences and infrastructure after recent rain, state farm group AgForce is urging property owners to also check the security of their livestock and equipment.
AgForce Cattle’s Ian Harsant said it is easy for property owners to fall victim to rural theft unless they take a few easy steps to secure their stock and equipment.
“Stock and equipment theft is a major issue and unfortunately a part of life for farming communities who are isolated and sparsely populated, so we all need to make sure we don’t leave ourselves open to theft,” Mr Harsant said.
“Many of these crimes take place when illegal trespassers see an opportunity like an unlocked fuel tank or an unlit shed; it’s easy to steal items which are not secured.”
In recognition of the impact rural theft has on primary producers, AgForce works closely with its members, the Stock and Rural Crime Squad (SARCIS) and other Queensland Police teams to find solutions to the issue.
AgForce has led the way to ensure there are now police prosecutors who specialise in rural life and rural crime, and to ensure a greater awareness across the entire Queensland Police service about the animal welfare needs of livestock in transport.
“If the police are to do their job successfully, people in rural areas must help them by reporting any suspicious activities and taking a few simple measures to make their property more secure,” Mr Harsant said.
Mr Harsant, who chairs the SARCIS consultative committee, said there were a number of ways producers to make their property safer:
- Identify tools, vehicles, machinery and equipment by photographing, videoing or using a metal engraver or other permanent identification such as the new DataDot technology. If plant or machinery is missing, report it immediately to the SARCIS or QPS and use the identification tools to describe them.
- Follow branding legislation to identify cattle and list all permanent property or stock.
Check paddocks, gates and fences where stock graze as regularly as possible. When stock are missing, immediately notify your local SARCIS or QPS office.When designing and erecting new buildings for fuel and machinery, incorporate security measures and construct from strong materials and lock points.Maintain a visible presence around your property and avoid set times or schedules if possible. Consider using guard dogs when you are unable to be home.Maintain and secure fences. Never leave gates or equipment unlocked or keys in vehicles.Turn off power to fuel pumps and fence and light the area around them. Keep the area around pumps, machinery and tanks clear to make observation easier and consider camera systems for added security.Consider becoming involved in Neighbourhood Watch and Rural Watch programs.“Remember to keep an eye out for your neighbours and tell them when you’ll be away so they can return the favour and be on the look-out for unusual activities,” Mr Harsant said.
“The key is to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately, because every piece of information is a piece to the puzzle and helps make a prosecution or build a case.”
To find out more about how to prevent rural crime, contact your local Stock and Rural Crime Squad officer.
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