Bull behaviour in firing line

April 10, 2024

An increase in recalcitrant livestock was putting drivers at risk and starting to wear thin on neighbours, according to those reporting sightings of stray cattle across the Lebrina area.

One large bull regularly spotted on the road near the turn off to Clover Hill winery has had many locals concerned, with City of Launceston Regulations Team Leader Joanne Denney confirming action was being taken.

“The City of Launceston's regulations officers routinely respond to call-outs regarding livestock around the municipality, including some recent calls regarding cattle at Lebrina.

“Both the Council and Tasmania Police have attended Lebrina in response to these calls, and the Council has so far identified the owner of some of the cows reported and issued them with an abatement notice.

“Our regulations officers are currently working with property owners in the vicinity of these reports to identify the cattle in question and ensure they are properly contained and not posing any potential risks to motorists.”

One local resident said it was an accident waiting to happen given how frequently the issue occurred.

“There is widespread community concern regarding this bull constantly being on
the road and the risk it poses to motorists,” she said.

“I have been travelling home from work in Launceston at 11.30 at night and it has been lying on the very edge of the road, on a blind corner.

“There is evidence that the police and council have been made aware of this bull being a hazard to local motorists since late February and nothing seems to be done about it.

“In the eight or so years I have lived in Scottsdale and travelled to work in Launceston early morning or late at night, I could confidently say I have had up
to a dozen near misses from cattle loose on the side of the road with two
occasions from different farmers and cattle just in this past month.”

Council is asking anyone who sees livestock on the loose in the City of Launceston boundaries to call  6323 3000 and, if possible, take a photo to assist in the identification process.

TasFarmers CEO Ian Sauer said it was an important issue in need of attention.

“Any livestock on a road where cars travel poses a serious risk of damage or injury if a collision occurs,” Mr Sauer said.

“If animals have been constantly on the road the issue needs to be taken seriously.

“A farmer has a duty of care to contain animals on his land.”