DWINDLING numbers of koalas and kangaroos “trapped” on private property at Cape Schanck have led to increased pressure on the state government to implement a wildlife management plan.
Mornington Peninsula Shire last week decided to “immediately renew advocacy efforts” to convince the government of the need of a plan to manage wildlife on the peninsula.
The shire will tell the government, “all relevant ministers and all local politicians” that “delays are not consistent with the aspirations of our community and the viability of our native wildlife”.
Cr David Gill said there had been no indication “of action in the foreseeable future” after a meeting between some councillors, shire CEO John Baker and Department Environment Land Water and Planning officers.
“This points to a reason for great concern as a related problem of 600 kangaroos isolated on a property near Greens Bush has been left in limbo for over 12 months.”
Infrastructure services manager Tom Haines-Sutherland told councillors at the Tuesday 7 February council meeting that “officer time” would be needed to run the advocacy campaign proposed by Gill.
“This would require redistributing officer time from existing campaigns that council has committed to. This may result in existing campaigns being reduced or halted, depending on council’s requirements and priorities,” he said.
Gill’s notice of motion to reinforce council’s calls for a wildlife management to the government was adopted by a majority of councillors. For the motion were Crs Gill, Despi O’Connor, Lisa Dixon, Susan Bissinger, Sarah Race, Debra Mar, Simon Brooks and Antonella Celi. Against: Crs Anthony Marsh and Steve Holland.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 28 February 2023
