How to Become a Modern Farmer: SkyKelpie’s Drones and AI Are Transforming Livestock Mustering
Image Source: SkyKelpie
A new approach to livestock management is being implemented in Queensland, Australia. Developed by grazier Luke Chaplain, the SkyKelpie system integrates drone technology with established livestock herding techniques. Designed for large rural properties, the system enables the mustering of cattle, goats, and sheep using drones equipped with thermal and zoom cameras. This method offers an alternative to traditional techniques such as horseback or helicopter mustering, aiming to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
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How SkyKelpie Works
SkyKelpie is a drone-based system used to guide livestock across expansive and often rugged terrain. Operated remotely, the drones assist in moving animals toward designated areas such as pens or water points. The system applies traditional stockmanship principles to influence herd movement while allowing operators to maintain a safe distance. Developed and tested at Malakoff Station near Cloncurry, SkyKelpie was designed with Queensland’s landscape and agricultural conditions in mind.
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Role of AI in SkyKelpie
SkyKelpie incorporates drones such as the DJI Matrice 30T and Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal, which are equipped with thermal imaging and optical zoom capabilities. These technologies enable the detection of animals in dense vegetation or low-light environments by identifying heat signatures and movement patterns. While current operations rely on manual piloting and real-time decision-making by trained operators, development is ongoing to support future integration of AI algorithms. These advancements aim to assist in route optimization and livestock behaviour analysis while maintaining adherence to stockmanship practices.
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Public Impacts and Benefits
The introduction of systems like SkyKelpie may influence both the agricultural sector and surrounding communities. By reducing reliance on high-risk mustering methods such as horseback or helicopter use, the system has the potential to lower workplace injuries and ease pressure on emergency services. Its use of drone technology introduces new roles in remote piloting and agricultural monitoring, contributing to employment diversification and upskilling in rural areas. Increased operational efficiency may also enhance productivity in industries like beef production, which plays a key role in Australia’s red meat exports. In addition, more controlled livestock movement supported by aerial monitoring can help mitigate land degradation, contributing to more sustainable farming practices. The extent of these benefits will depend on factors such as adoption rates and integration into existing workflows.
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Challenges and Concerns
Despite its potential, the adoption of drone-based mustering systems presents challenges. High initial costs—ranging from approximately US$20,000 to US$50,000 per unit—combined with operator training and licensing requirements, may limit accessibility for smaller farming operations. This disparity may influence competitiveness within rural economies. Labour displacement is another consideration; while technical roles may emerge, traditional mustering positions may decline, requiring workforce adjustments. Privacy concerns have also been noted, as drones equipped with advanced cameras may inadvertently record private land, raising questions about data handling and compliance with Queensland’s privacy regulations. Technical reliability and the risk of equipment failure or unauthorized access also remain relevant issues in operational planning.
Source: Drone Videos, MLA, Queensland Government, Evoke AG
