The traditional sounds of horses, motorbikes, and helicopters mustering livestock may soon be a thing of the past, as the cattle industry embraces world-first remote muster by drone. This groundbreaking technique, showcased at Beef Australia 2024, has the potential to revolutionize the way graziers manage their herds, bringing with it a host of benefits for the industry.
Led by Cloncurry-based drone mustering company SkyKelpie, the live remote muster demonstrated the incredible capabilities of drone technology in herding cattle from vast distances. Founder Luke Chaplain, a fourth-generation grazier, highlighted the potential for drones to modernize the ancient practice of mustering, offering farmers a cost-effective solution with impressive results.
With over 100,000 head of livestock already being mustered through drone technology, it is evident that this emerging tech is unlocking industry challenges and gaining traction among graziers. While some producers still opt to use traditional methods in combination with drones, the equipment is capable of herding livestock independently, marking a significant shift in the way mustering is approached.
The successful demonstration of live remote muster at Beef Australia 2024 has paved the way for the next phase in drone technology – the introduction of docking stations. These cutting-edge stations will provide drones with the ability to land, recharge, and take off as programmed, effectively allowing them to be operated remotely from anywhere in the world. While regulatory approvals have been a hurdle, Mr. Chaplain is optimistic about the widespread adoption of this remote technology, emphasizing the cost-saving potential and efficiency it offers to graziers.
Feedback from grazier Kale Robinson, who initially expressed skepticism about the use of drone technology, has been overwhelmingly positive. Having operated Eastfield Station for years, Robinson was impressed by the results and cost-effectiveness of using drones for mustering. In particular, the thermal camera feature, which allows for the detection of livestock heat signatures, has proven to be a valuable tool for his operations, offering significant cost savings in comparison to traditional methods.
The acceptance and enthusiasm shown by experienced graziers like Robinson indicate the potential for widespread adoption of drone technology in the cattle industry. As the capabilities and reach of this technology continue to expand, it is clear that mustering livestock with drones is more than just a passing trend – it is a game-changer for the future of the industry.