Lissner Park Flying Fox relocation to begin in October

After considerable planning and consultation, the much-anticipated relocation of the flying fox colony in Lissner Park will commence on Wednesday, 5 October 2022.  The aim of the dispersal is to encourage flying foxes to relocate from the Lissner Park and CBD area.

Council has engaged Biodiversity Australia, a specialist in environmental management, to undertake the dispersal using a staged approach, with the initial activities occurring between approximately 4 am until 8 am daily for a period of 4 weeks. 

The first stage of 1 – 2 weeks is likely to disturb nearby residents with a combination of loud noise, smoke and lighting activities, and pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals inside during these hours.

Lissner Park will be closed during the dispersal and people are asked to walk or exercise in alternate areas over this period.

There may be some initial traffic disruption in the first two weeks in the vicinity of Lissner Park and road users are asked to follow the directions of traffic controllers and/or signage.

Biodiversity Australia have a high success rate of flying fox relocation management and are committed to providing a successful outcome for the Charters Towers community.  The team will be highly mobile during the first week of the dispersal and ask residents and visitors to give them space to do the job.  

A community update meeting is planned for Tuesday, 11 October from 5:30pm at The World Theatre, Charters Towers to provide an update and field questions.

Mayor Beveridge said: This Flying Fox dispersal has been well planned and much consideration given to all those who might be temporarily affected.  Our priority is the health and safety of our community and visitors and we need everyone to support this Council initiative.

Please do not disturb any flying foxes that may be temporarily roosting in trees on your property during the dispersal period as they may return to Lissner Park.

There will be a dedicated Flying Fox phone number provided during the dispersal period, which is 1300 319 954, however we ask that this number is only used to report any flying foxes that are present on properties or that are in any unsuitable locations such as schools, health or aged care, airport or private properties.

Call this number if you see a flying fox that may be injured and Biodiversity Australia will ensure the animal receives care. 

For more information head to www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/community/flyingfox