The NSW Farmers forum aims to tackle farmer concerns about escalating theft and trespass incidents in the local region. 

Acting Commander of the Cootamundra LAC, Paul Huxtable, will join speakers from the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) biosecurity and food safety compliance team and farm incursion team.

NSW Farmers Regional Services Manager Jonathan Tuckfield said similar forums held in Oberon and Wagga highlighted some common concerns and some disturbing trends.

“Farmers spoke about the issue of illegal farm trespass and its impact on farming operations and a rise in the theft of equipment and livestock,” Mr Tuckfield said.

“One NSW Farmers member in Oberon described watching a drone fly into her property and go from shed to shed obviously checking contents, access and security, and there not being an adequate legal or criminal recourse this incursion.

“Local Members asked for a crime forum to be held in Young to cover the issue of farm trespass and its biosecurity threat, but we will also cover the theft of equipment, fuel and stock.” 

The public forum is being held at the Young Bowling Club on 28 June, starting at 7.00pm.