Media Release - Flying Fox dispersal activities set to commence

Council has engaged Biodiversity Australia to assist with the planned attempt to disperse the flying fox roosts within our CBD with works scheduled to commence on Tuesday 11 February 2020. 

Works will be conducted every morning from 11 February 2020 until the conclusion of the project which is estimated around 29 February 2020. The work area will be highly dynamic and dependent on flying fox behaviour and movement. Set up for the works will begin approximately 4.30am each day which is one hour from dawn and disruptive works will commence close to first light and continue for one hour to two hours.

Biodiversity Australia will be utilising a number of techniques that may cause some disruption/disturbance to residents and members of the public in the area. Various audible (up to 100dB) and visual tools will be utilised by the ground team, including pyrotechnics and high intensity lights. It is recommended that all pets are secured during the operation times.

Throughout the course of the project Council and ground staff would appreciate that members of the public and local residents do not interfere with the colony or the works being undertaken.

It is expected that flying foxes will land in undesirable locations such as resident’s backyards throughout the relocation. Residents are asked that if the flying foxes do take up temporary residence in an undesirable location that the landowner/resident is patient as their location will be a focus of the following day’s works.

Council would like to strongly reinforce that any unintended landings on personal property will be temporary and residents attempting to disperse may hinder the project.

Council thanks residents for their support and assistance to date and requests the community’s cooperation throughout this process.

Should you wish to report animals that have taken up temporary residence on your property, or you require further clarification regarding the dispersal activities, please contact Council on 4776 4600 for the necessary assistance.