Faunatech was established in 1991 with the primary objective to design and produce innovative and high quality field equipment for wildlife researchers.

Operating from Eltham, Victoria, we began producing foolproof spotlighting gear, audio playback equipment and an early version of the Hairfunnel. Demand, and a growing product range quickly dictated the acquisition of extra staff, and investment in additional specialised equipment.

Next, we added a range of specialised radio tracking transmitters and antenna towers to our catalogue. As momentum picked up, and in direct response to customers' requirements, we undertook more ambitious and sophisticated development programmes, adding electronic surveillance and monitoring systems, followed by the Austbat Harptrap.

In 2000, Faunatech /Austbat relocated to rural Victoria, purchasing property north of Bairnsdale on the beautiful Gippsland Lakes. Here we constructed a purpose-designed workshop to facilitate the efficient production of our now extensive range of products. With specialised areas for electronics, precision plastics moulding, metal shop/welding, funnel manufacture and bat trap assembly, we have succeeded in the establishment of a well-resourced, efficient and pleasant work environment.

Further to this, we have elected to re-assign the remainder of our property (previously agricultural) to a habitat restoration model. We are gradually re-establishing native vegetation and structure, nominating the property for Land for Wildlife status.

A note on Ross Meggs, founder and MD

My interest in natural history began early, with involvement in field naturalists clubs and environmental organisations. This led to participation, as a volunteer, in numerous rigorous wildlife research programmes. I remain a committed conservationist, keen bird-watcher and outdoor pursuits enthusiast. I hold a private pilot's licence, and am (slowly) building a small two-seat homebuilt aeroplane.

Formal studies undertaken include environmental and resource management, electronics, computer technology, metal machining and welding.

My employment path began with a number of technical trade positions, followed by a long stretch of tree surgery work. Shifting focus during the 1980's, I gained employment with a number of Government organisations, where I became involved in broadscale fauna surveys and forest ecology studies in several States.

Through the course of biological fieldwork, my colleagues and I were frequently hindered by the unavailability of reliable and practical research equipment. It was common at that time for research personnel to tolerate inappropriate or unreliable survey tools in the course of their fieldwork. This paucity of specialised equipment sparked the genesis of Faunatech.

Ross trapping for the endangered
Leadbeater's Possum in tall Mountain Ash forest.