RAPAD to deliver $2.25M more in cluster fences throughout the region
Graziers in central western Queensland wanting to access financial assistance to build cluster fences around their properties can now apply for a share of $2.25m in funding from the Queensland and Australian Governments.
Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is the successful tenderer for the region and is calling for applications to build strategic cluster fences from eligible groups of landholders in the local government areas of Barcaldine, Longreach, Blackall-Tambo, Winton, and Barcoo.
RAPAD Chairman Rob Chandler says the central west remains an area with high wild dog density and impact.
“Sheep and wool producers who got in early and formed a cluster under funding rounds one and two have not looked back, so I would urge anyone still under siege from dogs to talk to their neighbours and consider putting in an application,” he said.
To be eligible for the funding, applications must meet the following:
- Clusters must consist of at least two owners and two properties
- A maximum of $2700 / km GST exclusive is available to successful clusters
- Any cluster who provided an EOI to RAPAD in 2016 must complete this application to be considered for funding. EOIs provided in 2016 were used to demonstrate a need to Government and enabled the securing of this funding only
- Applications close 5:30pm Friday 26th April 2019. Application form on RAPAD website.
“Successful applicants from rounds one and two have reported results that been nothing short of astounding” he said.
“Apart from increasing lambing rates by as much as 80%, members of successful clusters also reported as the fences were being constructed, they felt they were once again gaining financial and environmental control of their properties and operations,” Councillor Chandler said.
To find out more about the results experienced under round two funding go to www.notjustafence.org
The project’s long-term goal is to be the catalyst for achieving significant improvement in profitability of regional businesses (both rural and non-rural) through the demonstration of the economic, social and environmental benefit of cluster fencing.
Morgan Gronold, Senior Regional Development Manager will once again be managing the project and is available to come and speak to potential clusters to help them with their applications, contact Morgan on 0448739759 or mgronold@rapad.com.au
The Queensland Feral Pest Initiative has received funding through the Queensland Government to support the growth of a productive and prosperous food and fibre sector in Queensland and the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the Australian Government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.
Click here to download the application form