Spinning powerline markers protect wildlife and boost farm safety

Local conservation landowner Keith Smith, who initiated the request for bird deterrent devices, has thanked the local Ergon crew for their work ahead of BirdLife North Queensland’s annual crane count in September.

“Their timing was perfect. Some cranes are already starting to arrive on the Tablelands and maize crops are expected to start being harvested in a week or two.

“The land around Peluchetti Road includes open pasture and cultivation of various crops. Sarus cranes and brolgas forage in the area annually during their winter visit to the Tablelands.

“I will monitor the road as the crane season progresses and report on any strikes, but hopefully there’s none,” Mr Smith said.

Spinning powerline markers not only reduce the risk of bird strikes and associated outages on the network; they are also designed to grab the attention of people operating agricultural machinery or aircraft.

In the same way you’re more likely to notice a wallaby bounding across the road when you’re at the wheel, the spinning motion of rotamarkers coupled with their vibrant colour encourages machinery operators to Look Up and Live when they are working near overhead powerlines.

“By installing rotamarkers in high traffic areas we help to reduce the risk of cane harvesters, haul outs and other farm vehicles hitting overhead powerlines and causing serious injuries or worse.

“The red and white spinning markers are a powerful visual reminder to stay well clear of powerlines when you’re operating oversize vehicles or flying low in a chopper.

“The rotamarkers also act as a deterrent to birds, bats and flying foxes, so it’s a win-win initiative,” Ergon’s acting Area Manager Sam Musso said.

In an area renowned for its birdlife and other native species, Ergon crews have contributed to wildlife protection in more ways than one.

“Our crews have installed powerline markers near bird colonies in other parts of the Tablelands, they have assisted in all manner of wildlife rescues and erected a lifesaving aerial crossing for possums on Lake Barrine Road after a request from South Endeavour Trust in 2023.

“The Tablelands is home to some amazing wildlife and our crews like to do their bit where they can,” Mr Musso said.