The unchecked spread of Mallee strangle vine across the Bland Shire NSW has escalated into a serious environmental and industry issue for brushwood fencing.
Local landholders and regional MPs are warning that the invasive vine is smothering native vegetation, increasing fire risk, and destroying the long-term sustainability of Australia’s brushwood supply.
Traditionally, brushwood used in fencing manufacture was harvested under controlled coppicing programs that allowed natural regrowth. Since coppicing was banned, Mallee strangle vine has taken over former brushwood areas, choking native species and creating thick, combustible understorey. The result is a rapid decline in available brushwood and a significant rise in harvesting difficulty and cost.
The problem is environmental, not structural as brushwood fencing itself is not a fire hazard. The concern lies in unmanaged land where invasive vine growth increases fuel load and restricts access. Local growers describe the situation as ‘a tragedy waiting to happen’, with whole areas now inaccessible to machinery or livestock.
Fencing Industry Australia supports calls to review coppicing regulations and reintroduce sustainable brushwood management to restore ecological balance and secure supply.
Removing the strangle vine and reinstating responsible coppicing practices would protect regional employment, reduce fire risk, and preserve the supply of one of Australia’s most sustainable fencing materials.
This story was first published in THE FENCE magazine.
