Community invited to help shape new koala policy

Council will develop a Noosa Shire Koala Policy in collaboration with the community.

From next month residents will be invited to provide recommendations via Council's Your Say Noosa portal on what the new policy should entail.

Cr Tony Wellington says Noosa is home to a number of known koala areas however anecdotal evidence suggests their numbers are dwindling.

“There is certainly concern within the community about the plight of our koalas,” Cr Wellington said.

“We’ll be seeking advice from koala experts including scientists, and we'll also be asking the Noosa community to tell us what measures they believe we should consider when determining how best to support our local koala populations,” he said.

“Suggestions may include habitat protection, the installation of infrastructure such as signs and koala crossings, enhanced pest control to tackle wild dogs, and public education and awareness campaigns.

“The public consultation process will ensure we consider a wide range of community views when developing the policy.”

Cr Wellington said staff would begin consulting with the community via the YourSay Noosa website at http://yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au next month, for a six-week period.

“Following consultation, staff will report back to Council with a draft policy.

“Both Council and individual landholders have a role to play in koala conservation. A Noosa Koala Policy will help us all to navigate this complex issue. Of course state and federal legislation will also have to be taken into account,” Cr Wellington said.

Consultation will begin in April at http://yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au

16 March 2015