THE much-anticipated rebuild of the South Australian Dog Fence is on track for an Autumn start, according to SA Dog Fence Board chair Geoff Power.
The tender process for fencing contractors and material suppliers is ongoing, with more than 70,000 timber posts, 7000 kilometres of wire and 127,500 steel droppers required for the project, which will repair and rebuild 1600km of the wearied fence.
According to PIRSA, more than two-thirds of the SA fence are more than 100 years old, with many sections damaged by pests, weather and sand erosion.
Mr Power, a sheep producer at Orroroo, said there were still active wild dog populations in SA's north, despite a decimation of livestock numbers caused by drought.
"Because of the drought, there's hardly any livestock left in the pastoral areas, especially the Marree section," he said.
"But the dogs are still there, there's no doubt about that."
Successful tenders for the fence rebuild are expected to be chosen in early 2020, with the rebuild expected to take up to five years to complete.
Minister for Primary Industries Tim Whetstone said there was an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the project and there was strong interest from suppliers and the construction industry in rebuilding the "iconic piece of infrastructure".
"There are two components to the rebuild project - the supply of materials and fencing services," he said.
"A total of 40 submissions were received from suppliers and contractors.
"Tender applications closed on December 10 and the evaluation process is underway. This process is expected to be completed and appointments finalised in February 2020."
