Feral pigs are a major problem

The Southern Downs Regional Council has been receiving information alleging that feral pigs are being brought into the region and being released for hunting purposes.
Feral pigs are class 2 animals under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (“the Act”).
As a declared pest, feral pigs must not be released, without reasonable excuse, other than under a declared pest permit.
The council advises that there are severe financial penalties for any person found to be in breach of the Act.
The maximum penalty for the unauthorised release of feral pigs is $40,000 (400 penalty units).
Feral pigs have the potential to cause an enormous amount of damage to the agricultural industry. Financially, losses to agricultural production and continuing expenditure on pig control can be major.
Damage caused by feral pigs is estimated at $100 million annually across Queensland.
The feral pig can damage almost all crops, from sowing to harvest; feed on seed, grain, fruit and vegetable crops; prey on lambs; damage pastures by grazing and rooting; spread weeds; and carry many diseases and parasites.
Their wide habitat range, omnivorous diet and potential for rapid population growth in good seasons mean that few agricultural pursuits are unaffected by these pest animals.
For further information on feral pigs and other declared pests, please contact the council on (07) 4661 0300.