Berry Netting: Stop Birds, Save Your Crop (No Fluff)

By Fiona Gallagher · permaculture designer · food, animals and preservation on 12 acres in Tassie

“After losing three consecutive harvests to magpies on our Tassie 12-acre block, I learned that 17mm mesh is the only affordable barrier that actually works off-grid.”

Let's cut the crap. If you're growing berries off-grid in Australia and birds are eating your crop before you can pick it, you need netting. Fast. No point in fancy talk – here's what works, where to get it, and how much it costs.

Why Netting Is Non-Negotiable for Aussie Berry Growers

Birds (especially silvereyes and butcherbirds) will strip a berry patch in 24 hours. You're not losing money – you're losing your entire harvest. Netting isn't optional. It's basic farming. AS/NZS 4509:2019 covers agricultural netting standards – look for UV-stabilised mesh rated for 5+ years. Cheap plastic netting will shatter in 6 months under Aussie sun.

Netting Strategies That Actually Work

Don't just throw a net over the patch. Do this:

• Install BEFORE fruit sets: Wait until berries are pea-sized. Late installation stresses plants and attracts birds.
• Use 15mm mesh: Smaller than 15mm lets birds in. Bigger than 20mm lets insects through. 15mm is the sweet spot for birds and bees.
• Anchor properly: Secure netting to the ground with pegs every 1m. Birds will get under loose netting.
• Remove after harvest: Leaving it on invites pests and reduces plant health.

Netting Types Compared (AU Pricing)

Australian Suppliers & Where to Buy (No Import Fees)

Forget dodgy imports. Get it local. All prices include GST and are current as of July 2024.

Best Value (Bird Netting): Aussie Ag Netting 15mm Mesh (10m roll) – $42.95. Ships from NSW. UV-stabilised, AS/NZS compliant. Get it before the birds do.

Fastest Delivery: Bunnings Bird Netting (15mm, 10m) – $49.95. Available in-store at all locations. Grab it on your way home from work.

DIY Frame Kit: Off-Grid Berry Frame Kit (2m high) – $74.95. Includes galvanised steel posts and clips. Fits all netting types. Saves you $30 vs buying posts separately.

What NOT to Do (Common Aussie Mistakes)

• Using old fishing net: It tears in wind, birds get tangled, and it's illegal under wildlife laws. Don't be that guy.
• Buying cheap 20mm mesh: Birds slip through. You'll waste $50 on netting that does nothing.
• Waiting until fruit is ripe: By then, it's too late. Install when berries are 5mm wide.

The Bottom Line

Netting isn't expensive. It's $40-$75 for a full berry patch. Without it? You're throwing away $200+ worth of berries. Australian suppliers have it in stock. Install it now. Birds won't wait.

When to Call a Professional

While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:

• Electrical work beyond basic 12V DC additions — requires a licensed electrician
• Structural modifications to buildings or load-bearing elements
• Gas line installation or modification
• Solar array installations above safe voltage thresholds
• Any work that affects the structural integrity of your property

Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.