General News
13 September, 2023
MP calls for expansion of grazing
WESTERN Victoria MP Bev McArthur, has called on cutting the red tape which she believes is inhibiting roadside grazing efforts from being carried out on roads.
WESTERN Victoria MP Bev McArthur, has called on cutting the red tape which she believes is inhibiting roadside grazing efforts from being carried out on roads.
Mrs McArthur raised her question with Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney in Parliament last week, citing Corangamite Shire’s roadside grazing season which began from this month.
She called on the process of obtaining permits for roadside grazing to be made simpler and for the state to expand the practice across state-administered roads.
Mrs McArthur has been a vocal proponent of roadside grazing permits being issued as a means to prevent the build up of potentially dangerous roadside fuel loads.
“Roads should be a firebreak, not a fire wick, and grazing the long paddock reduces fuel loads, increasing community safety,” she said.
“It is also good for drivers where roadside vegetation impedes vision or encroaches on roads.
“In drought situations it can be vital for cattle.
“It can easily be done safely during daylight hours with temporary electric fences.”
Mrs McArthur said bureaucratic burden was standing in the way of councils conducting roadside grazing, often meaning local government would “choose to do nothing”.
“That is not just a wasted opportunity, it could be dangerous,” she said.
“I trust the minister will congratulate the Corangamite shire.
“What will she (Ms Tierney) do to support Victorian farmers by working with colleagues in transport, environment and local government to make roadside grazing easier and to extend it where appropriate to state-administered roads?”