Gates Ajar & Motorists Aware

Escaped Cow Sightings Becoming a Rising Concern

Motorists within the Burdekin Shire are being warned to take extra precautions and practice vigilance following an increase in escaped cattle seen wandering the streets and grazing along busy roadsides.

Residents have shared concerns online, outlining the increase in sightings as a grave safety concern, especially during the school holiday period.

In the past few weeks, three separate sightings involving several cows have been reported on the corner of the Bruce Highway and Piralko Road, Iona Road (Home Hill Golf Course), and near Cape Creek. Passing motorists have noted sighting ajar gates on fenced cattle properties around the area, indicating the safety concerns of escaped cattle venturing along rural and residential roads with high-speed limits.

All drivers are encouraged to remain aware of how to share the road safely with wildlife, livestock and domestic animals, with the Queensland Government referring motorists to visit www.qld.gov.au/transport/saftey/rules to stay up to date with official guidelines, regulations and protocol to avoid traffic hazards.

Motorists are advised to pay attention to road signs indicating areas where animals are more likely to be active and always scan ahead for potential dangers. If evasive action is required to avoid an animal on the road, it’s the driver’s responsibility to assess the situation and take appropriate action that avoids or prevents risk to themselves and other road users.

If you hit an animal or witness an animal in danger or distress, contact the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) to report the incident.

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Motorists encouraged to stay vigilant as escaped cow sightings increase. Photo source: Unsplash

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