Feral animals are everyone’s responsibility

Published on 24 August 2017

Rockhampton Regional Council is reminding residents to report any sightings of feral pigs after a number were recently detected in Frenchville, Koongal, Lakes Creek and First Turkey.

Chair of Council’s Planning and Regulatory Committee Councillor Ellen Smith said Council was undertaking a number of measures but the ongoing issue would require a whole-of-community approach.

“While this issue is nothing new, the recent sightings are a good reminder for residents to ensure they report any activity to Queensland Parks and Wildlife or Council so officers can follow up,” Cr Smith.

“Feral pigs present a real risk to the environment and local agriculture by spreading weeds and exotic diseases and destroying crops. Feral pigs are restricted invasive animals under the Biosecurity Act 2014 and must not be moved, fed, given away, sold or released into the environment without a permit.

“There are a number of things Council can do and we are engaging with landowners in regards to preventing and managing feral pigs on their own properties. We are also talking to the State Government around a joint approach as a number of the sightings are on state-controlled national parkland.

“At the end of the day though, the Act requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risks associated with feral pigs on their land as Council only takes action on Council controlled land.

“For residents in areas where they know these animals might be around, the best thing you can do is make sure your property is fenced off and that there are no food scraps left around which might attract the animals,” Cr Smith said.

Anyone who wants to report a sighting can contact Council on 1300 22 55 77.