Tasmanian farmer left $5000 out of pocket from hay scam

The demand for livestock feed throughout the state has resulted in an alarming rise in hay scams targeting drought-impacted farmers. Here’s what it cost one farmer >>

bales of hay

Tasmanian farmers struggling in the state’s record drought conditions are being targeted by a hay scam that farming advocates are calling “predatory”.

Dry conditions across the state have resulted in poor feed crops for farmers, with many resorting to purchasing silage and hay to keep their livestock fed.

Farmers are reportedly contacting scammers advertising hay and providing deposits for goods that are never delivered, with TasFarmers president Ian Sauer stating one producer has already lost $5000 to the scam.

TasFarmers president Ian Sauer at the 2024 Agfest. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

“At the moment, farmers are already under high pressure without feed and with this dry period,” he said.

“Then you have people preying on the situation – you just can’t get much lower.”

TasFarmers have received tips from both northern and southern Tasmania, but only see the scam increasing as the demand for fodder continues.

“Last year, fodder was at a ballpark figure of around $60 for a bale of silage, now that same bale is closer to $200,” Mr Sauer said.

“There is just no fodder growing in our state, and these predators know how vulnerable our farmers are.”

Hay bales on a ship destined for King Island leaving Port Welshpool in Victoria. Picture: Supplied.

Mr Sauer has sought assistance from the Tasmania Police on legality of hay scams and what farmers should do.

“I’ve written to the Police Commissioner to alert them that this is happening and ask how we can help to stop it,” he said.

“I would tell farmers now that they need to be careful when buying fodder by getting a second opinion on prices or ads as well as making sure you can see the fodder in person before making any deposits or payments.”

A Tasmania Police spokesperson said ongoing investigations into the issue had resulted in a 30-year-old man from Northern Tasmania being charged in relation to a matter in March.

“It is alleged he advertised hay for sale, obtained money from a victim and then did not provide the hay,” the spokesperson said.

They urged people to be cautious when purchasing items, including hay, online: “if something seems too good to be true or suspicious, it probably is.”

Originally published as Tasmanian farmer left $5000 out of pocket from hay scam