Electrical offsets for insulators

Abstract

Disclosed is a member for spacing an electrical wire from a post. The post can be of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange. The member can be elongate and can comprise first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the 5 member. The first end can be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange. The second end can be configured for retaining a pin-lock type or annular type insulating element thereat for supporting and electrically isolating the electrical wire from the post. The pin-lock type insulating element can have a recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located 10 therein. The second end can be configured to be located in said recess in place of the at least one elongate flange. The second end can be further configured to be retained within the recess by at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element being inserted through the insulating element. Alternatively, the second end can be configured to receive thereat the annular type insulating element. A system 15 comprising the member and insulating element is also disclosed. 20719402_1 (GHMatters) P120575.AU.1 20 24 20 29 58 03 M ay 2 02 4 A B S T R A C T 2 0 2 4 2 0 2 9 5 8 0 3 M a y 2 0 2 4 20 24 20 29 58 0 3 M ay 2 02 4 20 03 May 2024 20U 10 22 A 2024202958 20L 16' A 20d C4 C3 20e 20c 20a C5 10 C2 38 C1 20b 40 d 22 21 22 42 40' FIG. 1B 44

Description

Technical Field This disclosure relates to an electrical offset that is configured for spacing an 5 electrical wire from a post. The electrical offset can take the form of a member, arm, prop, or other elongate component that is configured, at a remote end, for supporting the electrical wire at a distance from the post. The post can be of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange having one or more apertures therethrough. For example, the post can be a picket having a generally Y- or T- 10 profile section, such posts having particular applications in boundary, exclusion and containment fencing. Background Art Electric fences are used in agriculture to provide an effective boundary, containment and / or exclusion for livestock, feral and wild animals, vermin, etc. 15 For example, electric fences can be employed that provide a supplementary barrier to a conventional post and wire strand fencing. Such electric fences can be provided with an array of electric (i.e. conductive) wires that, when contacted, can administer an electric shock as a deterrent to crossing of the fence by an animal. The electric fences can be constructed as traditional fencing arrangements, having 2 0 spaced posts (i.e. pickets) about which the electric wires can be connected therebetween. The electric wires can be coupled to the posts via insulating elements configured to electrically isolate the wires from conducting electricity into the posts. The insulating elements are therefore configured to mount at the posts whilst providing an insulating barrier for the electrified wire. 2 5 More than one insulating element can be provided along a single post to support a corresponding array of electric wires connecting between posts. Accordingly, the 2024202958   03 May 2024 posts can be provided with an array of apertures for mounting the insulating elements thereto. It is to be understood that, for any prior art referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general 5 knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Summary Disclosed herein, in a first aspect, is a member that is configured for spacing an electrical wire from a post (i.e. a wire that can be electrified in use). Typically, the post is of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T- post). 10 The member can be elongate (e.g. to definitively space the electrical wire from the post). The member can comprise first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member. The first end of the member can be configured to be mounted (e.g. releasably) to the at least one elongate flange of the post. For example, the mounting may be 15 such that the member can then extend laterally away from the post. The second end of the member can be configured for retaining a pin-lock type insulating element thereat. A pin-lock type insulating element is typically formed from an insulating material (e.g. it can be moulded from plastic). The insulating element can comprise a wire 2 0 recess that receives, supports and electrically isolates therein the electrical wire (i.e. to separate and insulate it from the post). The insulating element can also be formed with a flange-receiving recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein (i.e. to facilitate direct mounting of the insulating element to the post). The insulating element can also be provided with 2 5 one or more apertures that open into the recess and that can be aligned with corresponding (e.g. pre-existing) apertures that extend through the at least one elongate flange of the post (i.e. when the flange is located in the recess). One or more respective pins (e.g. moulded pins that are supplied with and / or that are 2024202958   03 May 2024 tethered to the insulating element) can be extended through each of the aligned apertures of the insulating element and the post, with the pins locking therein, to thereby secure the insulating element to the at least one elongate flange of the post. 5 In accordance with the disclosure, the second end of the member can be configured to be located in said flange-receiving recess (i.e. in place of the at least one elongate flange of the post). In addition, the second end can be further configured to be retained within the recess by at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element being inserted through the insulating element. In other words, 10 the second end of the member can be configured to make use of the recess in which the flange of the post would usually be received. Further, once located in that recess, the second end can be retained therein by the at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element. In this way, the member can mount to the flange of the post at its first end, and can retain the pin-lock type insulating element at its 15 second end, to thereby space the insulating element away from the post. Because the insulating element is spaced away from the post, this also means that the post is free to then be used to support other types of fencing materials, such as traditional (non-electrified) fencing wire, fence mesh, panels, etc. The member can thereby allow a fence to be provided with an additional ‘layer’ of electrified 2 0 fencing. This additional layer can be one or more electrified wires on one or both sides of the fence. In some forms, one side of the fence can be provided with more or less wires than the other side of the fence. Further, as explained below, the second end can be reconfigured for use with each of single and double pin-lock type insulating elements. 2 5 In some embodiments, when the recess in the insulating element is configured to be planar, the second end may be configured to likewise be planar, so that the second end may pass (e.g. snugly or closely) through and into the recess to locate therein. 2024202958   03 May 2024 In some embodiments, the second end may be bent so as to configure the second end in a manner such that, when the pin-retainer is inserted through the insulating element, the pin-retainer locates adjacent to the bend so as to retain the second end within the recess. For example, the member may be a rod (e.g. of metal such as 5 galvanized steel) that is bent at each of its first and second ends. For example, the first end of the member may be bent to facilitate its mounting to the flange of the post. Further, the second end of the member may be bent so as to define the bend as a corner, adjacent to and within which the at least one pin-retainer can locate in-use. 10 When the pin-retainer is inserted through the insulating element, the corner acts to enclose at least part of the pin-retainer, i.e., being bent around the in-use pinretainer, to thereby securely retain the insulating element at the second end of the member. The corner may be configured such that, once the second end is e.g., slid into the recess, the pin-retainer can be inserted into the insulating element and 15 within the corner to locate against, e.g., in light pressure-contact with, at least part of the corner. Advantageously, this provides a ‘hard-stop’ against which the pinretainer may limit (i.e., constrain) movement of the in-use insulating element with respect to the second end. Further details of how the pin-retainer is located adjacent to the bend are provided later in the Detailed Description. 2 0 In some embodiments, the member may be configured as a double-ended member. In this regard, the first end may be arranged at an intermediate location between spaced apart second ends of the member. The second ends can thereby be used to space opposing insulating elements from the post (e.g. on opposite sides of the post). In this way, electrical fencing can be arranged on opposite sides of 2 5 the post to thereby provide additional fencing ‘layers’ (i.e. a layer spaced from either side of the post). In this double-ended configuration of the member, the first end is thus an “end” by virtue of it being the location of the member that is mounted at the post. Further, the first end is an “end” for each of the opposing second ends in relation 2024202958   03 May 2024 to their respective spacings from the post. The terminology “end” should thus be understood broadly in this context. In some embodiments, the second ends of the double-ended member may be configured in mirror opposite relation to thereby mount like insulating elements at 5 the respective spaced-apart second ends. Alternatively, one of the second ends may be configured for e.g. a double pin-lock type insulating element, and the other of the second ends may be configured for e.g. a single pin-lock type insulating element, or it may be configured for e.g. a porcelain-type insulating element, etc. 10 In some embodiments, when the second end is configured for retaining a double pin-lock type insulating element thereat, the second end may accordingly comprise in-use upper and lower portions. These portions may be defined by (i.e. in relation to) an axis that projects from said length of the member. The in-use upper and lower portions may be opposingly spaced about the axis. Further, the 15 in-use upper and lower portions may be configured for locating therebetween respective upper and lower pin-retainers of the insulating element (i.e. double pinlock type) to thereby retain the insulating element. In some embodiments, the in-use lower portion may extend from said length of the member (e.g. as a continuation thereof) to locate at an in-use lower side of the 2 0 axis. Further, the in-use upper portion may be configured to extend (e.g. as a continuation thereof) from the lower portion to thereby locate at an opposing inuse upper side of the axis. Each of the upper and lower portions may further comprise corners within which the respective upper and lower pin-retainers can locate and thereby retain the double pin-lock type insulating element to the second 2 5 end in-use. In some embodiments, the upper and lower portions may together form a generally C-shaped second end. In use, the upper and lower pin-retainers may locate within this C-shape. This ‘general’ C-shape of the second end can include 2024202958   03 May 2024 both a straight section of the C-shape as well as ‘hard’ comers thereof. This is explained in further detail below. In some embodiments, a portion of the C-shape may be configured to sit flat against the corresponding part of the insulating element when the upper and lower 5 pin-retainers are located within the C-shape. In some embodiments, when the second end is configured for retaining a single pin-lock type insulating element thereat, the second end may comprise a neck portion. The neck portion may be defined by said length of the member and an enlarged portion of the second end that extends from the neck portion. The neck 10 portion may be configured to locate in the flange-receiving recess of the single pin-lock type insulating element (e.g. when the recess is planar, the neck portion may be planar). For example, the neck portion may be configured to locate between a body of the insulating element and a pin-retainer. When the neck portion is so located, the enlarged portion may accordingly be retained by the pin-15 retainer to thereby retain the insulating element at the second end of the member. In some embodiments, the neck portion may in part be defined by a portion of said length of the member being bent back on itself. The resultant bend may be such as to define one side of the neck portion. In addition, the enlarged portion may be defined by a combination of: 2 0   - said portion of said length of the member that is bent back on itself; and - a further part of said length of the member that extends upwardly in use from said portion; and - an additional part of said length of the member that extends laterally in use from said further part; and 2 5   - a tail portion of said length of the member that extends downwardly in use from said additional part. 2024202958   03 May 2024 Further, the tail portion may extend sufficiently downwards in use such that it can define an opposing side of the neck portion. In some embodiments (i.e. for each of the single and double pin-lock type insulating elements) the first end of the member may be bent so as to form a hook. 5 This hook may be configured to enable the first end to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange of the post. For example, the hook may be configured to receive at least one fastener therethrough. The fastener can couple (e.g. by fastening) the first end of the member to the post. Further, the at least one elongate flange of the post may 10 comprise at least one (e.g. pre-existing) aperture that is configured to receive the at least one fastener therethrough to enable said coupling. Further, a plate may be arranged between the at least one fastener and the hook to distribute load applied by the fastener across the hook. In some embodiments, the tail portion may be configured to sit flat against the 15 corresponding part of the insulating element when the pin-retainer is located adjacent to the neck portion. In some embodiments, the hook may be configured to receive two spaced-apart fasteners therethrough. This can serve to prevent the first end of the member from rotating at its point of mounting to the flange of the post. 2 0 In some embodiments, said length of the member that extends between the first and second ends may generally be straight. In this regard, in use, the second end of the member may generally align with or be parallel to a plane defined by the at least one flange of the post. In other embodiments, said length of the member may configured with at least one 2 5 intermediate bend. The intermediate bend can serve to offset the first end of the member from the second end. Thus, in use, the second end may be laterally spaced from the plane defined by the at least one flange of the post. The bend may 2024202958   03 May 2024 also be such as to arrange the member so that it can pass through a material (e.g. fencing material) that is suspended between two or more posts in use. In some embodiments, when the member is double-ended, it may be configured with at least one bend located towards the intermediate location. This intermediate 5 bend may be configured for laterally spacing at least one of the spaced apart second ends from the plane defined by the at least one elongate flange of the post in use. Disclosed herein, in a second aspect, is a system for spacing an electrical wire 10 from a post. As above, the post may be of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T- post). The system can comprise a pin-lock type insulating element. The insulating element can comprise a flange-receiving recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein (e.g. snugly or closely). The insulating 15 element can also be configured to support and electrically isolate the electrical wire from the post. The system can also comprise at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element. The pin-retainer can be configured to be inserted through the insulating element for retaining the insulating element at the at least one elongate flange. 2 0 The system can further comprise a member that is configured to space the insulating element from the post. The member may be as set forth above for the first aspect. In this regard, the member can be elongate and can comprise first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member. As above, the first end can be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange; and the 2 5 second end can be configured to be mounted to the insulating element. As above, the second end of the member can be configured to be located in said recess of the insulating element in place of the at least one elongate flange. 2024202958   03 May 2024 Also disclosed herein is a member that is suitable for use in the system as set forth above. Disclosed herein, in a third aspect, is a member for spacing an electrical wire from 5 a post. As above, the post can be of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T-post). The member can be elongate and comprise a first end. However, the member of the third aspect comprises second ends that are opposingly spaced from the first end by a length of the member. In this regard, the first end may be arranged at an intermediate location between 10 the opposing second ends. The first end may be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange such that the second ends are each spaced from the post by said length of the member. Each of the second ends can be configured to retain a respective insulating element thereat (i.e. each insulting element can be configured for supporting and 15 electrically isolating a respective electrical wire from the post). The opposing spaced second ends can thereby locate and space the respective electrical wires at and from opposite sides of the post. In the member of the third aspect, each of the second ends may be configured for retaining an insulating element therein - e.g. in the manner as set forth in the first 2 0 aspect (above). Also, the first end may be configured in the manner as set forth in the first aspect (above). Further, the member may be configured in the manner as set forth in the first aspect (above). Disclosed herein, in a fourth aspect, is a member for spacing an electrical wire 2 5 from a post. The member of the fourth aspect can be specifically configured for use with a double pin-lock type insulating element. The post may be of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T- post). The member can be 2024202958   03 May 2024 elongate and comprise first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member. As above, the first end can be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange. 5 However, the second end can be specifically configured for retaining the double pin-lock type insulating element thereat (i.e. to support and electrically isolate the electrical wire from the post). As above, the double pin-lock type insulating element has a flange-receiving recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein. 10 In the member of the fourth aspect, the second end can comprise in-use upper and lower portions defined by an axis projecting from said length of the member. The in-use upper and lower portions can be opposingly spaced about the axis and configured for locating therebetween respective upper and lower pin-retainers of the insulating element. 15 In the member of the fourth aspect, the lower portion may extend from said length of the member (e.g. as a continuation thereof) to locate at an in-use lower side of the axis. Further, the upper portion may be configured to extend from the lower portion to locate at an opposing in-use upper side of the axis. In the member of the fourth aspect, the second end may be bent so as to configure 2 0 the second end with the upper and lower portions. The bends may be arranged in a manner such that, when the pin-retainers are inserted through the insulating element, the pin-retainers may locate adjacent to the bends of the upper and lower portions so as to retain the second end within the recess. In the member of the fourth aspect, the second end of the member may be bent so 2 5 as to define the bends of the upper and lower portions as corners. Each pinretainer may locate adjacent to and within its respective corner to thereby retain the double pin-lock type insulating element to the second end in-use. 2024202958   03 May 2024 In the member of the fourth aspect, the upper and lower portions may together form a generally C-shaped second end, within which the upper and lower pinretainers may locate in-use. The member of the fourth aspect can otherwise be configured as set forth in the 5 first aspect (above). Disclosed herein, in a fifth aspect, is a member for spacing an electrical wire from a post. The member of the fifth aspect can be specifically configured for use with a single pin-lock type insulating element. The post can be of a type that comprises 10 at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T- post). The member can be elongate and comprise first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member. As above, the first end can be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange. 15 However, the second end can be specifically configured for retaining the single pin-lock type insulating element thereat (i.e. to support and electrically isolate the electrical wire from the post). As above, the insulating element can have a recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein. In the member of the fifth aspect, the second end can comprise a neck portion that 2 0 is defined by said length of the member and an enlarged portion. The neck portion can be configured to locate in the recess of the single pin-lock type insulating element between a body of the insulating element and a pin-retainer of the insulating element. When so located, the enlarged portion can be retained by the pin-retainer to thereby retain the insulating element at the second end of the 2 5 member. The member of the fifth aspect can otherwise be configured as set forth in the first aspect (above). 2024202958   03 May 2024 Also disclosed herein is a member for spacing an electrical wire from a post. Typically, the post is of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange (e.g. a Y- or T- post). The member can be elongate and comprise first and second ends 5 that are spaced apart by a length of the member. The first end can be configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange. The second end can be configured to retain an annular insulating element thereat (e.g. a porcelain-type insulator that supports and electrically isolates the electrical wire from the post). The second end can be defined by a portion of said length of 10 the member. For example, said length of the member can be configured to comprise first and second arms that are movable between: - an open position to allow the annular insulating element to be received and located at the second end; and 15   - a closed position where the second end is configured to extend at least part-way around the annular insulating element to thereby retain the annular insulating element thereat. In some embodiments, the second end may be formed as a loop. The loop may have a throat that defines the loop as an enlarged portion of the second end. The 2 0 throat may lead into the enlarged portion such that, when the annular insulating element is pushed through the throat, it is received and located at the second end. In some embodiments, a free end of said length of the member may be configured to latch back onto the member at a location that is intermediate its first and second ends when the first and second arms are in the closed position. 2 5 In some embodiments, the first end may be bent so as to form a hook that is configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange of the post. For 2024202958   03 May 2024 example, the hook may be configured to receive at least one fastener therethrough for coupling the first end of the member to the post. Further, the at least one elongate flange of the post may comprise at least one aperture that is configured to receive the at least one fastener therethrough to enable said coupling. 5 In some embodiments, a plate may be arranged between the at least one fastener and the hook to distribute load applied by the fastener across the hook. In some embodiments, said length of the member may be configured with at least one bend for arranging the member to pass through a material (e.g. fencing material) that is suspended between two or more posts in use. 10 Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figs. 1A to II show first and second embodiments of a member in the form of a 15 single-ended electrical offset for spacing a wire from a post, the offset being configured at one end for mounting to a double-pin type insulating element, where: Fig. 1A shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the offset; Fig. IB shows a different perspective view of a second embodiment of the 2 0            offset; Fig. IC shows a side view of the offset of Fig. 1A in-use, mounted to a major flange (stalk) of a post; Fig. ID shows a top view of a double-pin type insulating element being located onto an end of the offset in use; 2024202958   03 May 2024 Figs. IE and IF show respective top and side views of the double-pin insulating element in its normal location on a post; Fig. 1G shows the offset embodiment of Fig. 1A, with an opposite end mounted to the major flange of a post; 5          Fig. 1H shows the offset embodiment of Fig. IB with an opposite end mounted to the major flange of a post, the offset extending in one lateral direction; and Fig. II shows the offset embodiment of Fig. IB with an opposite end mounted to the major flange of the post, the offset extending in an 10            opposite lateral direction to that of Fig. 1H. Figs. 2A to 2C show a third embodiment of a member in the form of an offset, being a double-ended offset, with each end configured for mounting to a doublepin type insulating element, where: Fig. 2A shows a perspective view of the double-ended offset of the third 15          embodiment; Fig. 2B shows a side view of the double-ended offset; and Fig. 2C shows a perspective view of an assembled double-ended offset being mounted to the major flange of a post. Figs. 3A to 3C show fourth and fifth embodiments of a member in the form of a 2 0 single-ended electrical offset for spacing a wire from a post, the offset being configured at one end for mounting to a single-pin type insulating element, where: Fig. 3A shows a perspective view of the offset of the fourth embodiment; Fig. 3B shows a perspective view of the offset of the fifth embodiment; and 2024202958   03 May 2024 Fig. 3C shows a side view of the offset of Fig. 3 A in-use, with one end mounted to the major flange of a post, and the opposite end mounted to the single-pin type insulating element. Figs. 4A to 4C show a sixth embodiment of a member in the form of an offset, 5 being a double-ended offset, where each end is configured for being mounted to a single-pin type insulating element, where: Fig. 4A shows a perspective view of the double-ended offset of the sixth embodiment; Fig. 4B shows a side view of the double-ended offset; and 10          Fig. 4C shows a perspective view of an assembled double-ended offset mounted to a major flange of a post. Figs. 5A to 5F show seventh and eight embodiments of members in the form of single-ended and double-ended electrical offsets respectively, each offset for spacing a wire from a post, each offset being configured for mounting to a 15 porcelain ring-type insulating element, where: Fig. 5A shows a perspective view of the single-ended offset of the seventh embodiment; Fig. 5B shows a perspective view of the double-ended offset of the eighth embodiment; 2 0          Fig. 5C shows a side view of the offset of Fig. 5 A in an in-use open position; Fig. 5D shows a side view of the offset of Fig. 5 A in an in-use closed position; Fig. 5E shows the offset embodiment of Fig. 5 A being mounted to the 2 5          major flange of a post; and 2024202958   03 May 2024 Fig. 5F shows the offset embodiment of Fig. 5B being mounted to the major flange of the post. Detailed Description 5 In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope 10 of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure. 15 Referring firstly to Figs. 1A and IB, first and second embodiments of a member for spacing an electrical wire from a post are shown in the form of first and second electrical offsets 10, 10’. As shown in Figs. IC and 1G to II, each electrical offset 10, 10’ is configured for mounting to a post that has at least one elongate flange, for example, each is configured to be mounted to the major flange 2 0 (or stalk) 11 of a Y-post 12. As an in-use example, the Y-post can take the form of a post such as is shown in AU 2013205197. The major flange 11 of the Y-post 12 can be provided with a number of spaced-apart holes or apertures 24 along its length, which are typically provided to enable a fencing material (e.g. fence wire, mesh, panels, clips, etc.) to be secured to the post. 2 5 Each electrical offset 10, 10’ is configured to ‘offset’ (i.e., to space) an electrical wire 14 from the post 12 (Fig. IC). As indicated by the dotted lines in Figure 1A, each offset 10, 10’ can comprise a first end 16 and a second end 20, spaced apart by a length 22 of the offset 10. The second end 20 is generally C-shaped, having a somewhat trapezoidal profile, as will be explained in more detail below. 2024202958   03 May 2024 In the embodiments shown, each offset 10, 10’ can be formed of spring steel (e.g., shaped from galvanised steel rod of approximately 5mm diameter). The rod of spring steel can be configured with an arrangement of bends that combine to define each of the first and second ends 16, 20. As set forth in more detail later, 5 the length 22 of the offset 10’ of Fig. IB can also include one or more bends to arrange, i.e., support, the second end 20 in different orientations with respect to the post 12. As above, the post 12 is of the type that comprises an elongate flange 11. In the form as best shown in Figs. IC and 1G to II, the elongate flange 11 (i.e. ‘stalk’) is 10 configured with respect to two divergent flanges 13 (i.e. ‘wings’) such that the post has a Y-shaped cross-section (i.e. to take the form of a so-called ‘star-picket’ with a pointed ‘in-ground’ lower end). In this form, the elongate flange 11 forms a major flange or ‘stem’ or ‘stalk’ of the post. One or more apertures 24 are provided along a length of the flange 11 and can receive e.g., wire ties, insulating 15 elements, clips, or attachments otherwise required for a fencing structure. The first end 16 of the offset 10, 10’ can be formed as a hook 21 that is configured for mounting the offset 10, 10’ to the post 12. The hook 21 is shaped to receive one or more fasteners 15 which are inserted into respective apertures 24 in the flange 11. One of those fasteners 15 extends through a loop defined by the hook 2 0    21. As explained in more detail below, the fasteners 15 allow the first end 16 to be secured at the flange 11 of the post 12 so that the length 22 of the offset 10 is able to project outwardly from the post, and does not rotate thereat. As shown in Figs. 1A, IB and IC, the hook 21 is formed from a single bend 16’ in the first end 16 so as to configure the first end to have a general ‘U’ shape. 2 5 Accordingly, the U-shaped end provides a type of slot 17 having an open end 19 that can receive one of the fasteners 15 therethrough. In the form shown, the hook 21 is configured to receive this single fastener in the slot 17. In other forms (not shown) it is anticipated that the hook can be configured with a longer slot that can extend between two apertures 24 for receiving the two fasteners 15 therein. As set 2024202958   03 May 2024 forth above, this can then provide two securing points by which the first end 16 can be mounted to the post 12. As shown in Figs. 1G and 1H, and as indicated in Fig. IC by dotted lines, a plate 26 can be provided that extends between two spaced apertures 24. In use, the plate 5   26 is sandwiched between the first end 16 of the offset 10, 10’ and the heads of the two spaced fasteners 15. The plate 26 allows the fasteners to apply a more even pressure across the U-shaped first end 16 to better secure the offset 10, 10’ at the flange 11, and to better support the offset in its outwardly (laterally) projecting orientation (i.e. so as to be cantilevered from the post 12). Advantageously, the 10 plate 26 engages with the U-shaped first end to in turn prevent the second end pivoting about the first end when the electrical wire 14 is mounted at the second end (i.e. which thereby applies a weight / monetary force at the U-shaped first end). In-use, the one or two fasteners 15 can be loosely attached to the post 12 together with the plate 26, prior to mounting the first end 16 thereto. Advantageously, the 15 open end 19 of the U-shape allows the slot 17 to be slidably assembled over one of the fasteners 15 (i.e., to locate between the plate 26 and flange 11) before the fasteners are tightened for securing the first end against the flange 11. The second end 20 of the offset 10 is configured for retaining an insulating element 28 thereat. In the form shown, the insulating element is a double pin-lock 2 0 type insulating element that has two sets of thru-holes 32 in a head 28b (Fig. ID). As best shown in Fig. IE, in its normal use, when mounting the double pin-lock type insulating element directly to a flange 11 of the post 12, the two sets of thru-holes 32 are arranged in-use to locate on opposing sides of the flange 11. In this regard, the head 28b of the insulating element is configured to have two sets of 2 5 ‘legs’ 33 for mounting either side of the flange, whereby each set of legs 33 comprises a set of thru-holes 32. The thru-holes 32 open at opposing sides of the head 28b, and are separated by a recess 34 therebetween. In its normal usage, the thru-holes 32 are configured to receive correspondingly shaped pin-retainers 30 therethrough. Thus, when the insulating element 28 is 2024202958   03 May 2024 mounted directly to the post (Figs. IE and IF), the pin-retainers 30 allow the insulating element to be securely mounted to and retained at the flange 11. That is, the recess 34 is arranged on the flange 11 such that the apertures 24 align with the thru-holes 32 on opposing sides of the recess. This alignment allows the pin- 5 retainers 30 to pass each of the thru-holes and apertures to thereby secure the insulating element 28 at the flange 11. However, the offsets 10, 10’ have each been configured at their second end 20 to mount to the double pin-lock type insulating element 28. In this regard, the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’ is sized to be received by the recess 34 of the 10 insulating element 28. Advantageously, this allows the insulating element 20 to be indirectly mounted to and spaced away from the flange 11 (i.e., the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’ locates in place of the flange 11). In effect, the one and same type of insulating element 28 can be mounted directly to the post 12 for supporting the electric wire in close proximity to the post, or it 15 can mount to the offset 10, 10’ (i.e., to indirectly mount it to the post 12 to thereby support the wire 14 in spaced relation to the post 12). Advantageously, the offset 10, 10’ enables the use of the same type of insulating element 28 for both arrangements, and can thereby reduce inventory and manufacturing costs. To facilitate the mounting of the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’ in the 2 0 correspondingly planar recess 34 of the insulating element 28, the second end can be planar, i.e., formed in a single plane in a similar way to the flange 11 of the post (i.e., compare Figs. ID and IE). Advantageously, the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’ is configured such that the insulating element 28 can be retained on the second end 20 by the pin- 2 5 retainers 30. In this regard, and referring now to Figs. 1A and IB, the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’ is provided with an arrangement of bends 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e. These bends combine to configure the second end 20 with a general C-shape. The second end of the member is thereby configured to generally correspond in shape 19 2024202958   03 May 2024 to the head 28b of the insulating element 28 when viewed in profile, i.e., as shown in Fig IC. In this regard, each of the bends 20b to 20e form comers of the C-shape that configure the second end 20 so that it fits within the recess 34 of the insulating element, and in a way that the second end can retain the insulating 5 element 28 thereat via the pin-retainers 30. As best shown in Fig. IC, the comers 20b, 20e align with corresponding edges of the thm-holes 32 of the insulating element 28 so that, in use, the pin-retainers 30 can locate adjacent to the corners 20b, 20e. More particularly, the pin-retainers 30 are located within the bend of the corners 20b, 20e adjacent to lengths Cl and C5 10   of the second end 20 to thereby retain the insulating element 28 to the second end 20, and to retain the second end within the recess 34. Referring particularly to Fig. IB, the first bend 20a of the offset 10, 10’ defines a first segment Cl which extends at an angle (e.g. right angle) to the length 22 of the offset 10, 10’. In the form shown, the angle between the segment Cl and the 15 length 22 of the offset 10, 10’ is approximately 90 degrees. The second bend 20b of the second end 20 defines a second segment C2 that extends at an angle to the first segment Cl. In the form shown, the second segment C2 extends at an acute angle, (e.g. ~ 60 degrees) and being less than 90 degrees relative to the first segment Cl. As set forth previously, the second bend 2 0   20b forms one of the comers within which an in-use lower one of the two pin retainers 30 can locate when inserted through respective thm-holes 32 of the insulating element 28. As such, the acute angle of the corner 20b arranges the segments Cl, C2 such that the pin-retainer 30 nests therebetween to more securely retain the insulating element 28 thereat (compared to e.g., an obtuse angle where 2 5 the segments C1, C2 would be angled at greater than 90 degrees). The third bend 20c of the second end 20 defines a third segment C3 which extends at an angle to the second segment C2. Typically, the third and second segments C3, C2 are configured such that the third segment C3 is generally parallel to the first segment Cl. The third segment C3 is configured at this angle 2024202958   03 May 2024 so as to locate against (or to run generally parallel to) a back 36 of the recess 34 when the second end is received in the recess (in-use). This configuration of the third segment C3 and the back 36 of the insulating element 28 is best shown in Fig. ID. While not shown in Fig. ID, the third 5 segment C3 is configured such that it tends to locate at (e.g., press against) the back 36 of the insulating element 28 to thereby further restrict movement of the insulating element with respect to the offset 10, 10’. Such movement may arise from e.g., a load placed on the electric wire 14 that in turn displaces the insulating element 28 with respect to the second end 20. The straight surface of the segment 10 C3 sits flat against the back 36 of the insulating element 28 to thereby prevent the ‘rocking’ back and forth of the insulating element 28 on the second end 20 of the offset 10, 10’. As set forth in more detail below, the segment C3 is pressed against the back 36 of the insulating element 28 by pin-retainers 30. The pin-retainers are arranged to 15 apply a positive pressure to the back 36 of the insulating element to firmly hold the insulating element to the second end 20. The fourth bend 20d of the second end 20 defines a fourth segment C4 that extends at an angle to the third segment C3. The fourth segment C4 is arranged to extend at generally the same angle to the third segment C3 as the second segment 2 0 C2 does to the third segment C3. The fifth bend 20e of the second end 20 defines a fifth segment C5 that extends at an angle to the fourth segment C4. The fifth segment C5 is generally parallel to the third segment C3 and is aligned with the first segment Cl. A terminal end 38 of the fifth segment C5 faces towards the length of the member 22. 2 5 Additionally, the fifth bend 20e arranges the corner 20e in an opposing location to the second bend 20b with respect to the length 22 of the offset 10, 10’. That is, corners 20b and 20e are generally located in mirror opposite positions about an imaginary axis A-A (Fig. 1A) defined by the length 22 of the offset 10, 10’. 2024202958   03 May 2024 In this regard, the axis A-A delineates an in-use upper portion 20U and lower portion 20L of the second end 20. The in-use upper portion 20U includes corners 20d and 20e and the lower portion 20L includes corners 20b, 20c. The upper and lower portions (and hence, corners 20d, 20e and 20b, 20c) are opposingly spaced 5 about the axis and are configured to receive respective upper and lower pinretainers 30. Accordingly, the segments C4 and C5 are arranged (i.e., angled) to be mirror opposite the arrangement of segments Cl and C2. The fifth comer 20e therefore functions in the same manner as the second corner 20b, i.e., each of the second 10 and fifth comers locate and retain respective upper and lower pin-retainers 30 therewithin. In-use, the upper and lower pin-retainers 30 located within the mirror opposite corners / bends 20b, 20e can abut against respective corners / bends 20b, 20e to retain the second end 20 within the recess 34 and thereby prevent the insulating 15 element 28 from sliding outwards from and off the second end of the offset 10, 10’. The abutment of mirror opposite comers 20b, 20e with the upper and lower pinretainer holds the insulating element firmly at the second end between the upper and lower pin-retainers and the back 36 of the insulating element. In effect, this 2 0 stabilises the insulating element so as to prevent, or at least limit, the insulating element from ‘rocking’, i.e., moving, shifting, free-playing, etc., between the back 36 and the corners 20b, 20e. Advantageously, this allows the member 10, 10’ and the insulating element to form a rigid assembly that, in-use, may prevent an electrical wire held thereat 2 5 from being dislodged by e.g., a livestock brushing up against the wire. In the form shown, the segments Cl, C2, C3, C4, C5 are generally straight portions of e.g., spring steel, though in some other forms the segments can be shaped to have e.g. curves or a series of bends. 2024202958   03 May 2024 The length 22 of the member 10, 10’ can also comprise one or more bends configured to laterally shift the first end 16 with respect to the second end 20. In the form of the member 10’ shown in Fig. IB, an intermediate bend 40 is located at an intermediate location of the member length 22. The intermediate bend 40 is 5 arranged at a location along the length of the member 22 such that, when the first end 16 is mounted to the post, a first portion 22’ of the member length 22 extends at an angle from the U-shaped first end 16 so as to generally closely face one of the two divergent flanges 13 of the post 12, and such that the length of the member 22 can traverse, i.e., bend around an edge of said one of the two 10 divergent flanges 13 of the post 12. In addition to the intermediate bend 40, a further bend 40’ can be formed between the U-shaped bend of the first end 16 and the length of the member 22. The further bend 40’ can allow the first end 16 to be mounted at the major flange 11 of the post such that the first portion 22’ projects (i.e. angles away from the major 15 flange 11) so as to traverse along said one of the divergent flanges 13. Hence, in the form shown in Fig. IB, the bend 40’ can arrange the first portion 22’ at 120 degrees to the first end 16. In other forms, i.e., as shown in Figs. 1H and II, the bend 40’ can be such as to arrange the first portion 22’ at 90 degrees to the first end 16 (e.g. making the member 10’ also suitable for use with T-posts). 2 0 A second portion 22” of the member length 22 then extends from (and at an angle to) the first portion 22’ so as to space the second end 20 from the post 12 (i.e. in a similar manner to the member 10). In the form shown in Figure IB, the second portion 22’ and second end 20 lie in (and in effect define) a plane 42 that is parallel to but laterally offset from a plane 44 in which the U-shaped first end 16 2 5 lies. The planes 42, 44 of the first and second ends are laterally spaced apart (i.e., offset) by a distance ‘d’. The magnitude of distance ‘d’ can be determined by the angle formed between the first and second portions 22’,22” and by the length of the respective portions 22’,22”. 2024202958   03 May 2024 While the form shown in Fig. IB comprises an intermediate bend 40 that angles the first portion 22’ to generally follow one of the two divergent flanges 13, i.e., at — 120 degrees, the intermediate bend 40 can alternatively arrange the first and second portions 22’,22” at other angles, e.g., 90 degrees. As set forth above, the 5 angle can be chosen to laterally space the second end at a distance from the first end, so as to ’clear’ the divergent flange 13. As set forth in more detail below, this arrangement of the offset is best shown in Fig. 1H. Advantageously, the intermediate bends 40, 40’ thereby allow the offset 10’ to extend from the post 12 on the same side as the divergent flanges 13. This 10 arrangement is best illustrated by Fig. 1H. By comparison, and referring to Fig. 1A and 1G, some forms of the offset 10 may not include an intermediate bend. In these forms, the first and second ends 16, 20 are configured to lie in the same plane (i.e. to be co-planar). In this form, the intermediate bend is not required as the offset 10 can extend directly out from the major flange 11 (when mounted 15 thereat) without a needing to traverse around the divergent flanges 13. Referring now to Figs. 1G to II, the in-use offsets 10, 10’ are shown in-line for assembly to the post 12 by being mounted thereto via a plate 26 and fasteners 15. In the form shown, the fasteners 15 are bolts secured with respect to the plate and the major flange 11 of the post 12 by corresponding nuts 7. 2 0 Fig. 1G shows the offset 10 of Fig. 1A, i.e., having first and second ends 16, 20 that lie in the same plane. The offset 10 of this form extends directly outwards from the major flange 11 of the post 12. By comparison, Figs. 1H and II show the offset 10’ in a form in which the length of the member 22 includes the bend 40 configured at generally 90 degrees (although it could be at 120 degrees in the 2 5 arrangement of Fig. 1H). As shown in Fig. 1H, the bend 40’ allows the first portion 22’ to extend outwards from the major flange 11 of the post 12, whereby the intermediate bend 40 can then arrange the second portion 22” at 90 degrees to the first portion 22’. The bends 40, 40’ thereby shift the second end 20 laterally from the first end 16. 2024202958   03 May 2024 Referring now to Fig. II, in some cases the offset 10 that includes bends 40,40’ can be mounted to the major flange 11 of the post 12 for extending from the post without traversing the divergent flanges 13. Such use of the (bent) offset 10’ can e.g., allow the offset to pass through an existing (i.e. non-electrified) wire fencing 5 that would otherwise contact (i.e., to block) a ‘straight’ offset 10 (of the type shown in Fig. 1G). Alternatively, use of the bent offset 10’ can be advantageous in situations where two offsets are required to extend from opposing sides of the post 12. In such situations, use of a bent offset 10’ from both sides of the post can align the 10 seconds ends 20 of the offsets such that the electric wires passing therethrough are symmetrically supported about the post. In a variation of the offsets 10, 10’ that are shown in Figs. 1A to II, a doubleended offset 100 (i.e., a double-ended member) can be used for spacing electric wires on opposing sides of a post / fence. As shown in Figs. 2A to 2C, the double-15 ended offset 100 can be mounted to the post 12 in place of the offsets 10, 10’ (that, by comparison, are configured for extending from only one side of a post / fence). In this variation, like reference numerals are used for like features with the addition of the prefix ‘ 1’. As shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, the double-ended offset 100 comprises a first ‘end’ 2 0    116 that is actually arranged at an intermediate location between spaced apart second ends 120’, 120”. The first end 116 is formed as an intermediate bend 116’ for mounting to a stem 111 of a post 112. The first end is an ‘end’ with respect to each of the second ends 120’, 120”. The spaced apart second ends 120’,120” can each comprise the features as set 2 5 forth above in relation to the offsets 10, 10’ of the types (i.e., straight and bent) shown in Fig. 1A and IB. That is, the double-ended offset 100 includes a member length 122’, 122” respectively extending between of the spaced second ends 120’, 120” and the intermediate bend 116’. Further, the offset 100 can comprise one or more bends 140, 140’ for laterally offsetting (shifting) the spaced second ends. 2024202958   03 May 2024 In the form shown, bends 140, 140’ are provided on a member length 122’ so that, when the offset 100 is mounted to the major flangel 11 of post 112 in-use, the bends can traverse one of the divergent flanges 113 of the post 112. The length of the member 122” can be formed without a bend such that it extends directly from 5 the major flangel 11 and is coplanar with the first end 116 and the second end 120”. The intermediate bend 116’ can be formed in generally the same manner as the bend 16’ of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and IB. That is, the intermediate bend 116’ can be formed to have a general ‘U’ shape, providing a type of slot 117 10 having an open end 119 that can receive one or more fasteners 115 therethrough. In this regard, the offset 100 can be mounted to a post 112 as set forth above for the offsets 10, 10’. The double-ended offset 100 is essentially two ‘single’ offsets 10 arranged end-to-end and in mirror opposite relation, but formed from a single piece of e.g., spring 15 steel. In this regard, and as an alternative to the double-ended offset 100, it is envisaged that two single offsets 10, 10’ may be arranged about their first ends (being mounted to a post) so as to form a generally (functional) equivalent, and assembled version of, the double-ended offset. A plate 126 may then be used in the same way as for the single offset 10, however, the plate would be used to 2 0 ‘clamp’ the two first ends at the post, so as to suspend the second ends 20 outwards from opposing sides of the post. Advantageously, utilising the double-ended offset 100 instead of two single offsets 10, 10’ can minimise the labour required to mount the two, separate offsets 10. 10’. Additionally, the double-ended offset 100, being formed from a single 2 5 piece of e.g., spring steel, can provide a more robust offset than would be provided by two separate offsets 10, 10’ clamped together about the post 12. Referring now to Figs. 3A to 3C, a further embodiment of the electrical offset 200 is shown. In this embodiment, like reference numerals are used for like features with the addition of the prefix ‘2’. The primary difference between the offsets 10, 2024202958   03 May 2024 10’ and the offsets 200, 200’ is the arrangement of bends forming the second end 220 of the offset. That is, in the offsets 200, 200’, the second end 220 is configured to locate and retain a single pin-lock type insulating element 228 thereat (see Fig. 3C). 5 The single pin-lock type insulating element 228 primarily differs from the double pin-lock type insulating element 28 in that the single pin-lock type only comprises one pin-retainer 230 for locating and retaining the element to a major flange 11 of a post 12 (or in this case, for locating and retaining the element to the second end 220 of the offset 200, 200’). 10 The second end 220 is formed with an arrangement of bends that configure the second end to generally have a ‘P’ shape when viewed in profile. As best shown in Fig. 3C, the P-shaped second end comprises an enlarged portion 242 that extends from a neck portion 244. The P-shaped second end 220 can be located, e.g., slid into a recess 234 of the 15 insulating element 228 and can be retained in the recess by a pin-retainer 230. Only the one pin-retainer 230 is required to retain the insulating element 228 at the second end 220. As shown in Fig. 3C, the neck portion 244 is configured to locate between a body 228a of the insulating element 228 and the pin-retainer 230. As set forth in more 2 0 detail below, the arrangement of bends configures the enlarged portion 242 to thereby be retained by the pin-retainer 230 such that insulating element 228 is thereby secured at the second end 220 of the offset 200, 200’. Referring now to Fig. 3B, a first bend 220a of the offset 200, 200’ arranges a first segment El at an angle to the length 222 of the offset 200, 200’. In the form 2 5 shown, the angle between the segment El and the length 222 of the offset is approximately 90 degrees. A second bend 220b located in the second end 220 arranges a second segment E2 at an angle to the first segment El. In the form shown, the second segment E2 is 2024202958   03 May 2024 also arranged at 90 degrees relative to the first segment El but generally parallel to the length 222. Together the bends 220a, 220b serve to cause a portion of the length of the member (i.e., the portions defined as segments El and E2) to bend back on itself so as to form the neck portion 244. 5 As shown by Fig. 3C, the bends 220a, 220b of the neck portion arrange the segments El, E2 such that they nest the in-use pin-retainer 230 therebetween. In this way, the neck portion 244 serves to retain the in-use insulating element 228 at the second end 220. The second segment E2 also forms part, i.e. a ‘base’ of the enlarged portion 242. 10 In this way, the neck 244 is continuous with the enlarged portion. This can allow both the neck and enlarged portion to be in contact with the pin-retainer 230 to thereby contribute to retention of the insulating element 228 thereat. For example (and as set forth in more detail below), the segment El can abut the pin-retainer 230 in-use to limit longitudinal movement of the insulating element 228, and 15 similarly, the segment E2 can contact the pin-retainer to limit transverse movement of the insulating element. A third bend 220c arranges a third segment E3, i.e. a further part of the member length 222, to extend upwardly from the second segment so as to form a ‘side’ of the enlarged portion 242. In the form shown, the third bend 220c arranges the 2 0 third segment E3 at a 90 degree angle to the second segment E2. In other forms, the third and second segments E3, E2 can be otherwise angled e.g., at 45 degrees to each other. A fourth bend 220d arranges a fourth segment E4, i.e., an additional part of said member length 222, at an angle to the third segment E3. In the form shown, the 2 5 bend 220d arranges the third and fourth segments E3, E4 at a 90 degree angle so that the fourth segment E4 extends laterally from the third segment E3. The fourth segment E4 is thereby arranged to be generally parallel with the length 222 of the member as a ‘top’ of the enlarged portion 242. 2024202958   03 May 2024 A fifth bend 220e arranges a fifth segment E5, i.e., a tail portion of said member length 222, at an angle to the fourth segment E4. The bend 220e is configured to arrange the fifth segment E5 to extend downwardly in-use, so as to be generally parallel with, and spaced from, the first segment El. This arrangement of the fifth 5 segment E5 defines an opposing ‘side’ of the enlarged portion 242. The segment E5 also forms an opposing side of the neck portion 244. As best shown in Fig. 3C (when referencing Fig. 3B), the fifth segment E5 is spaced from the first segment El so as to locate in-use against (or in close facing relation to) a back 236 of the recess 234 when the second end 220 is received in 10 the recess. This configuration of the segments allows the neck portion 244 and head portion 242 to retain the insulating element 228 at the second end of the offset 200, 200’. In particular, the segments E5 and El can locate between the pin-retainer 230 and the body 238 (i.e., back 236); and the member length 222 and the segment E2 to 15 locate on opposing sides of the pin-retainer 230. In effect, segments E5 and El can prevent the insulating element from moving longitudinally towards or away from the second end, i.e., with reference to the direction of the member length 222; and the member length 222 and the segment E2 can prevent the insulating element from moving transversely at the second end, i.e., in a direction transverse 2 0 to the member length 222. The segments E5 and El can be arranged with respect to the pin-retainer 230 and the insulating element such that, when assembled together, the pin-retainer holds the insulating element firmly at the second end between the pin-retainer and the back 236 of the insulating element. In effect, this stabilises the insulating element 2 5 so as to prevent, or at least limit, the insulating element from ‘rocking’, i.e., moving, shifting, free-playing, etc., between the back 236 and the segment El. The straight surface of the segment E5 sits flat against the back 236 of the insulating element 228 to thereby prevent the ‘rocking’ back and forth of the insulating element 228 on the second end 220 of the offset 200, 200’. 2024202958   03 May 2024 Advantageously, this allows offset 200, 200’ and the insulating element to form a rigid assembly that, in-use, may prevent an electrical wire held thereat from being dislodged by e.g., a livestock brushing up against the wire. Referring now to Figs. 4A to 4C, a variation of the offset 200, 200’ is shown in 5 the form of a double-ended offset 300 (i.e., a double-ended member). In this variation, like reference numerals are used for like features but with the addition of the prefix ‘3’. The double-ended offset 300 primarily differs from the double-ended offset 100 in that the second ends 320’, 320” are each configured for locating and retaining 10 respective single pin-lock insulating elements thereat. For example, as shown in Fig. 4B, the double-ended offset 300 comprises a first ‘end’ 316 arranged at an intermediate location between spaced apart second ends 320’, 320”. The first end 316 is formed as an intermediate bend 316’ for mounting to a major flange 311 of a post 312 (as shown in Fig. 4C). 15 The double-ended offset includes a member length 322’, 322” extending respectively between the spaced second ends 320’, 320” and the intermediate bend 316’. Further, the offset 300 comprises bends 340, 340’ for offsetting the spaced second ends. Referring now to Figs. 5 A to 5F, further embodiments of the electrical offset 400, 2 0   500 is shown. In these embodiments, like reference numerals are used for like features with the addition of the prefix ‘4’ and ‘5’. The primary difference between the offset 400,500 and the previous (i.e., first and third) embodiments of the offset 10, 10’, 100, 200, 200’, 300 is that the second end 420,420’,420” of the offset 400, 500 is configured to locate and retain an annular (e.g. porcelain ring-2 5 type) insulating element 428 thereat. Referring firstly to Fig. 5A, the electrical offset 400 is configured for extending from only one side of a post / fence. In this form, the second end 420 comprises a bend in the form of a loop 420a that is shaped to generally follow a circular 2024202958   03 May 2024 profile of the annular insulating element 428. Further, the length of the member 422 is configured to comprise first and second arms 422a, 422b that extend from the second end 420. In this regard, the second end 420 is defined by an intermediate portion of the length of the member 422. 5 Further, the arms 422a, 422b are moveable between open and closed positions. In this regard, referring firstly to Fig. 5C, the arms 422a, 422b are shown in an open position. In the open position, the arms are spaced apart such that the annular insulating element 428 can be received (e.g. pushed / urged) through a throat 450 of the loop 420’. 10 The throat 450 can be formed just by the curve 420a itself or, as shown in Figs. 5C and 5D, the second end can comprise one or more additional bends 420b, 420c that together form the throat 450. These bends are configured to narrow the throat so as to restrict movement of the insulating therethrough. The throat 450 can thereby define the loop 420a as an enlarged portion of the 15 second end 420. The throat 450 can lead into this enlarged portion such that, when the annular insulating element 428 is pushed through the throat, it is received and locates at the second end. Referring now to Fig. 5D, the arms 422a, 422b are shown in the closed position. Here, the arms have been brought together so as to configure the loop 420a of the 2 0 second end 420 to extend and clamp at least part-way around the annular insulating element 428. In other words, the loop 420a forming the second end 420 is further ‘closed’ so as to move the additional bends 420b, 420c towards each other so as to reduce the size, i.e., to narrow an opening, of the throat 450. A free end 454 of said length 422 of the offset 400 is configured with a hook 454 2 5 that is configured to latch back onto the offset 400 at a location that is intermediate its first and second ends 416, 420 when the first and second arms 422a, 422b are in the closed position. In particular, the hook 454 can latch the first arm onto the second arm to maintain the closed position. 2024202958   03 May 2024 Moving the arms together into the closed position thereby acts to ‘close’ the throat 450, whereby the annular insulating element 428 can then be retained at the second end 420. In the form shown in Figs. 5A and 5B, the annular insulating element can 5 comprise an annular groove 452 in a periphery of the insulating element 428. The annular groove can be sized to receive and locate, (i.e., to centre the second end 420 of the offset 400 within the groove of the insulating element) when the arms 422a, 422b are moved into the closed position. Referring now to Figs. 5B and 5F, a variation of the offset 400 is shown in the 10 form of a double-ended offset 500 (i.e., a double-ended member). The doubleended offset 500 primarily differs from the double-ended offset 400 in that the second ends 520’, 520” are each configured for locating and retaining respective annular insulating element 528 thereat. 15 Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description, except where the 2 0 context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the member and system. 25

Claims

1. A member for spacing an electrical wire from a post, the post being of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange, the member being elongate and comprising first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member,5          the first end being configured to be mounted to the at least one elongateflange; andthe second end being configured for retaining a pin-lock type insulating element thereat for supporting and electrically isolating the electrical wire from the post, the pin-lock type insulating element having a recess which is configured 10 for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein,wherein the second end is configured to be located in said recess in place of the at least one elongate flange, the second end being further configured to be retained within the recess by at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element being inserted through the insulating element.15   2. A member according to claim 1, wherein, when the recess in the insulatingelement is configured to be planar, the second end is configured to likewise be planar so as to pass through the recess to locate therein.

3. A member according to claim 2, wherein the second end is bent so as to configure the second end in a manner such that, when the pin-retainer is inserted2 0 through the insulating element, the pin-retainer locates adjacent to the bend so as to retain the second end within the recess.

4. A member according to claim 3, wherein the second end of the member is bent so as to define the bend as a comer, adjacent to and within which the at least one pin-retainer locates in-use.2 5   5. A member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein themember is configured as a double-ended member, the first end being arranged at2024202958   03 May 2024an intermediate location between spaced apart second ends of the member, the second ends configured in mirror opposite relation to thereby space opposing insulating elements from the post.

6. A member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the5 second end is configured for retaining a double pin-lock type insulating element thereat, the second end accordingly comprising in-use upper and lower portions defined by an axis projecting from said length of the member, the in-use upper and lower portions being opposingly spaced about the axis and configured for locating therebetween respective upper and lower pin-retainers of the insulating10 element to retain the insulating element.

7. A member according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 4, wherein the in-use lower portion extends from said length of the member to locate at an in-use lower side of the axis, with the upper portion being configured to extend from the lower portion to locate at an opposing in-use upper side of the axis, each of the15 upper and lower portions comprising comers within which the respective upper and lower pin-retainers locate and retain the double pin-lock type insulating element to the second end in-use.

8. A member according to claims 6 or 7, wherein the upper and lower portions together form a generally C-shaped second end, within which C-shape2 0 the upper and lower pin-retainers locate in-use.

9. A member according to claim 8, wherein a portion of the C-shape is configured to sit flat against the corresponding part of the insulating element when the upper and lower pin-retainers are located within the C-shape.

10. A member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second end2 5 is configured for retaining a single pin-lock type insulating element thereat, the second end comprising a neck portion being defined by said length of the member and an enlarged portion of the second end that extends from the neck portion, the neck portion being configured to locate in the recess of the single pin-lock type2024202958   03 May 2024insulating element between a body of the insulating element and a pin-retainer, whereby the enlarged portion is accordingly retained by the pin-retainer to thereby retain the insulating element at the second end of the member.

11. A member according to claim 10, wherein the neck portion is in part5 defined by a portion of said length of the member being bent back on itself, whereby the resultant bend thereby defines one side of the neck portion, with the enlarged portion being defined by:- said portion of said length of the member that is bent back on itself; and- a further part of said length of the member that extends upwardly in use10           from said portion; and- an additional part of said length of the member that extends laterally in use from said further part; and- a tail portion of said length of the member that extends downwardly in use from said additional part, whereby the tail portion thereby defines an15          opposing side of the neck portion.

12. A member according to claim 11, wherein the tail portion is configured to sit flat against the corresponding part of the insulating element when the pinretainer is located adjacent to the neck portion.

13. A member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first2 0 end is bent so as to form a hook to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange of the post.

14. A member according to claim 13, wherein the hook is configured to receive at least one fastener therethrough for coupling the first end of the member to the post, the at least one elongate flange of the post comprising at least one2 5 aperture configured to receive the at least one fastener therethrough to enable said coupling.2024202958   03 May 202415. A member according to claim 14, wherein a plate is arranged between the at least one fastener and the hook to distribute load applied by the fastener across the hook.

16. A member according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 14, wherein said 5 length of the member between the first and second ends is generally straight so that, in use, the second end of the member generally aligns with or is parallel to a plane defined by the at least one flange of the post.

17. A member according to claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 14, wherein said length of the member is configured with at least one intermediate bend, the intermediate 10 bend offsetting the first end of the member from the second end such that, in use, the second end is laterally spaced from the plane defined by the at least one flange of the post.

18. A member according to claim 5, wherein the double-ended member is configured with at least one bend located towards the intermediate location, the 15 intermediate bend configured for laterally spacing at least one of the spaced apart second ends from the plane defined by the at least one elongate flange of the post in use.

19. A system for spacing an electrical wire from a post, the post being of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange, the system comprising:2 0           a pin-lock type insulating element comprising a recess which is configuredfor the at least one elongate flange to be located therein, the insulating element being configured to support and electrically isolate the electrical wire from the post;at least one pin-retainer of the insulating element that is configured to be 2 5 inserted through the insulating element for retaining the insulating element at the at least one elongate flange; and2024202958   03 May 2024a member configured to space the insulating element from the post, the member being elongate and comprising first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member, wherein:the first end is configured to be mounted to the at least one5          elongate flange; andthe second end is configured to be mounted to the insulating element,wherein, the second end of the member is configured to be located in said recess of the insulating element in place of the at least one elongate flange.10   20. A system for spacing an electrical wire from a post according to claim 18,wherein the member is as defined in any one of claims 1 to 17.

21. A member suitable for use in the system as defined in claim 18, the member being as defined in any one of claims 1 to 17.

22. A member for spacing an electrical wire from a post, the post being of a15 type that comprises at least one elongate flange, the member being elongate and comprising a first end and second ends opposingly spaced from the first end by a length of the member,the first end being arranged at an intermediate location between theopposing second ends, the first end configured to be mounted to the at2 0           least one elongate flange such that the second ends are each spaced fromthe post by said length of the member; andthe second ends being configured to each retain a respective insulating element thereat for supporting and electrically isolating a respective electrical wire from the post, whereby the electrical wires can be spaced2 5           from opposite sides of the post.2024202958   03 May 202423. A member according to claim 22, wherein each of the second ends is configured for retaining an insulating element therein in the manner as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12.

24. A member according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the first end is configured 5 in the manner as defined in any one of claims 13 to 15.

25. A member according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the member is configured in the manner as defined in claim 18.

26. A member for spacing an electrical wire from a post, the post being of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange, the member being elongate and 10 comprising first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member,the first end being configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange; andthe second end being configured for retaining a double pin-lock type insulating element thereat for supporting and electrically isolating the electrical15 wire from the post, the double pin-lock type insulating element having a recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein,wherein the second end comprises in-use upper and lower portions defined by an axis projecting from said length of the member, the in-use upper and lower portions being opposingly spaced about the axis and configured for locating2 0 therebetween respective upper and lower pin-retainers of the insulating element.

27. A member according to claim 26, wherein the lower portion extends from said length of the member to locate at an in-use lower side of the axis, with the upper portion configured to extend from the lower portion to locate at an opposing in-use upper side of the axis.2 5   28. A member according to claim 27, wherein the second end is bent so as toconfigure the second end with the upper and lower portions, the bends being2024202958   03 May 2024arranged in a manner such that, when the pin-retainers are inserted through the insulating element, the pin-retainers locate adjacent to the bends of the upper and lower portions so as to retain the second end within the recess.

29. A member according to claim 28, wherein the second end of the member5 is bent so as to define the bends of the upper and lower portions as corners, adjacent to and within which the pin-retainers locate and retain the double pinlock type insulating element to the second end in-use.

30. A member according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein the upper and lower portions together form a generally C-shaped second end, within which the10 upper and lower pin-retainers locate in-use.

31. A member according to any one of claims 26 to 30, the member being configured as set forth in any one of claims 5 or 11 to 17.

32. A member for spacing an electrical wire from a post, the post being of a type that comprises at least one elongate flange, the member being elongate and15 comprising first and second ends that are spaced apart by a length of the member,the first end being configured to be mounted to the at least one elongate flange; andthe second end being configured for retaining a single pin-lock type insulating element thereat for supporting and electrically isolating the electrical2 0 wire from the post, the insulating element having a recess which is configured for the at least one elongate flange to be located therein,wherein the second end comprises a neck portion that is defined by said length of the member and an enlarged portion, the neck portion being configured to locate in the recess of the single pin-lock type insulating element between a2 5 body of the insulating element and a pin-retainer of the insulating element, whereby the enlarged portion is retained by the pin-retainer to thereby retain the insulating element at the second end of the member.2024202958   03 May 202433. A member according to claim 32, the member being configured as set forth in any one of claims 5 or 11 to 17.

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