Dirranbandi fine wool producer Duncan Banks.

REMOTE monitoring is giving more flexibility to outback Queensland producers relying on distant pipeline and troughs systems to water stock.

Producers like Dirranbandi fine wool producer Duncan Banks are using new remote monitoring technology to help ease the tyranny of distance.

Mr Banks and other producers who have integrated remote monitoring technology into their operations will speak at a series of Leading Sheep field days across western Queensland during June.

Four years ago, Mr Banks installed a water meter on the main poly pipe from a neighbouring artesian bore to 25 tanks and 30 stock troughs on his 4000 hectare property Dunwold. A water specialist helped him equip the water meter with technology allowing it to send data, via two-way radio, back to his home computer and/or mobile phone. He gets continuous water flow data reports that show the peaks and troughs of water usage along 30 km of pipeline.

Dunwold’s remote water monitoring system is powered by solar panels.

DAF senior extension officer Nicole Sallur said remote monitoring meant producers could check on water, stock and fencing without leaving the house.

“This can free up valuable time, means that false alarms don’t waste hours, and ultimately the business can run more efficiently.

“It also means that producers can leave their property and still keep an eye on what’s happening – or take a much-needed holiday,” she said.

The remote monitoring field days are being organised by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will be held at:

St George on June 19 at the Balonne Skill Centre from 9.30am-1.30pm

The Morven Racecourse on Tuesday June 20 from 8.30am-12.30pm

The Isisford Showgrounds on Wednesday June 21 from 10am-3pm and

Longreach at the Rosebank shearing shed on Thursday June 22 from 10am-3pm

The field days will also feature a range of displays from companies providing remote monitoring equipment, including technology for monitoring water and electric fences, as well as cameras and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The cost of the field day is $20 per person, which includes smoko and lunch. To register log on to www.leadingsheep.com.au by June 14.

Click here for more information on Duncan Banks’ operation.