Researchers from the Buderim-adjacent University of the Sunshine Coast recently travelled to outback Queensland. There, they used four-legged robots to herd sheep at a local high school, sparking discussion about technology’s role alongside traditional working dogs.
The demonstration took place last month, March 2025, at St George State High School, bringing advanced technology face-to-face with rural life.
Robot Dogs Demonstrated in St George
The University of the Sunshine Coast team brought Unitree Go2 robots to the school’s agricultural plot as part of a youth summit activity. These four-legged machines, capable of walking, jumping, and shaking, were tested on the school’s livestock.
With a top speed of 18 kilometres per hour and a battery lasting around two hours, the robots successfully moved small groups of sheep within the yards. However, students and staff noted that the robots lacked the appealing appearance of their furry counterparts.
Working Dog Expert Questions Robot Role
While the technology impressed onlookers, experienced Dirranbandi grazier and top working dog trainer Tom Perkins expressed doubts about robots replacing kelpies soon. Mr Perkins found using robots for livestock interesting, noting that technology in other agricultural areas had advanced while the livestock side had lagged. However, he firmly believed robots could not replace working dogs entirely.
Mr Perkins pointed out that working dogs possess intelligence and can think for themselves, unlike robots which require constant remote control. He questioned how a robot would handle the demanding physical work and vast distances covered by dogs in paddocks, especially when moving sheep in yards. Further challenges, he suggested, include the high cost of robots compared to dogs (even good ones), their durability on rough terrain, and how they would fare if charged by annoyed cattle or sheep.
Another factor Mr Perkins highlighted was the companionship dogs provide, especially when working alone. He also observed a recent increase in the use and value of working dogs, partly due to difficulties finding farm staff. One person with good dogs can often do the work of several people. While acknowledging that robots might suit specific, smaller tasks, he maintained he would stick with his dogs for larger operations.
School Sees Educational Opportunity
The robot demonstration was a valuable educational tool for St George State High School. Caitlin Crowe, the school’s Head of the Department for Agriculture, Technology, and Arts, explained that the university visit aimed to show students the future possibilities in agriculture. She said the students were highly engaged and understood that agriculture involves diverse roles, including engineering and mechatronics (a field combining mechanics and electronics).
Ms Crowe stated that the school, recognised as an agricultural school of excellence, focuses on innovative pathways. Following the demonstration, the school now plans to purchase its robot dogs. These robots would be used in the agricultural program and the digital technologies curriculum, where students could learn to code them for voice commands and apply these skills practically on the school’s ag plot.
Published Date 24-April-2025
