The problem began to escalate in February 2014 with a total of 116 incidents reported to police during the subsequent 12 months to January 2015. However from February 2015 to January this year, those offences dropped to 50.

Break and enters declined by 56 per cent from 16 to seven, while stealings dropped by 73 per cent from 51 incidents to 14. Trespassing decreased only slightly.

Gunnedah Police Sergeant Jacob Cantwell said it’s a dramatic drop that is welcomed following a major crackdown by landholders, police and the community. 

“I would say it’s to do with awareness,” he said. 

“ Certainly once the criminals were aware that the farmers out there had real issues and an active interest in that, it was concerning to them they were likely to be caught.”

The drop in crime follows an emergency meeting in Gunnedah 18 months ago after an escalating number of break-and-enters, stealings and trespassers on rural properties. 

Thousands of dollars worth of equipment and fuel was stolen from a number of areas in the district.

Local police, rural crime officers and detectives met with 78 landholders who vented frustration about illegal pig chasers, the rise of thefts and fence cutting. 

Police gave advice on farm security, vigilance by landholders and the importance of reporting all incidences to police. They also carried out targeted patrolling. 

“The decrease may have been due to the fact farmers had taken advice on how to deter criminals at those meetings,” Sergeant Cantwell said. 

“That could be through CCTV, lighting, signs, alarms and the reporting of suspicious vehicles and number plates.”

Sergeant Cantwell said it’s important landholders remain vigilant despite the drop in rural crime figures, continue to report any incidences and reassess what they are doing in relation to security.