Upcoming events deliver practical insights on guardian dogs

These sessions are focused on bringing experienced producers and experts to the region to share how they’ve made guardian dogs work in real-world farming systems. The goal is to turn awareness into practical understanding, helping landholders assess whether LGDs could be a good fit for their own property.

Senior Biosecurity Officer Paul Gibb said the sessions are about giving producers clear, experience-based information.

“We know there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to pest animal control,” Mr Gibb said.

“A lot of people have heard about guardian dogs, but aren’t sure how they would work on their property. This is about bringing in people who are using them successfully and sharing what’s involved.”

The sessions feature speakers with hands-on experience across different production systems. Queensland producer Wayne Wayte will discuss how LGDs helped improve lamb survival on a large-scale property, while Armidale-based Catherine Kimmorley will share her expertise in bonding and training dogs for smaller and peri-urban farms.

Italian producer Silvia Bonomi will also offer an international perspective, sharing her experience using guardian dogs to protect livestock from wolves.

Mr Gibb will also provide local context, drawing on his extensive experience in wild dog management across the Central Tablelands and overseas.

“Pest animals continue to impact livestock production, placing pressure on producers across the region,” he said.

“I’ve seen firsthand, both here and overseas, how guardian dogs can play a role in reducing livestock losses. Hearing directly from producers gives people a realistic understanding of what’s involved and what’s possible.”

Register online to secure your place at Bathurst (Friday 25 September) or Mudgee (Saturday 26 September), 7:00–9:30 pm www.nsw.gov.au/lls-events