file image.
Camera Iconfile image. Credit: Supplied/Daniel Wilkins

Kangaroo mob in jeopardy

Tom Rabe, Eastern ReporterEastern Reporter

The City must make a decision on the mob of western grey kangaroos ahead of plans to subdivide and develop the media precinct, next to the Cottonwood Crescent Bush Forever site, in coming years.

However, it has postponed any final decision pending further consultation with environmental groups.

It was also recommended that all proponents of the media precinct developments be requested to provide at least four months’ notice before starting site works.

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A council report said kangaroo numbers had been steadily declining for several years.

Originally recorded at just under 20, there are now only about 10.

Friends of Dianella Bushland secretary Jan Bant said the kangaroos should be left alone and a dedicated bushland corridor included in redevelopment plans.

‘Currently the kangaroos roam freely between the two bushland areas, but development plans would restrict them to the Cottonwood area only,’ she said.

Ms Bant said adequate restrictions would need to be imposed on residents of the new development to ensure the safety of the native animals living in the neighbouring Bush Forever site.

‘Kangaroos can be stressed by the presence of cats and dogs. There is a no-dog policy in Cottonwood Crescent Bushland, and future residents would need to be aware of these restrictions,’ she said.

A City-appointed ecological consultant made several recommendations to council, including the occasional release of semi-tame female kangaroos to reduce the possibility of inbreeding.

The City has sought more advice from the Department of Environment and Conservation, particularly about the relocation of the kangaroos, enclosing the Bush Forever site or culling the native animals.