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City refer development to Department of Environment over fears for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos roosting spots

Rachel FennerMandurah Coastal Times

CARNARBY’S Black Cockatoos roosting in Mandurah could be at threat if a subdivision of Lot 50 Stock Road in Parklands goes ahead.

The risk to the birds was brought to the attention of City of Mandurah by two councillors at last night’s council meeting.

Councillors Fred Riebeling and Jane Fields voiced concerns for the birds at the meeting.

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The subdivision would see around 11ha of land separated into five lots.

It would also be cleared for buildings and a road.

About 30 years ago, the property was predominantly cleared, but since then the site has been covered by mature regrowth.

Cr Riebeling said council do not determine the outcome of the subdivision and are merely responsible for making recommendations to the State Planning Authority.

“It’s an environmentally-sensitive area and it’s a pity it can’t be preserved for future generations to see,” he said.

“A survey was done to look for Carnaby’s (Black) Cockatoos, but it was done when the cockatoos weren’t in the area.

“Two studies need to be done on the environment, so we can preserve the qualities we seek to preserve.”

As part of the application to subdivide the property, the applicants made their own environmental report, which suggested the proposal might have a significant impact on the cockatoo’s habitat.

Councillors recommended the matter be referred to the Department of the Environment.

Depending on their investigation, council would look at ways to reduce the impact on the cockatoo.

They will also seek greater clarification regarding the impact the subdivision would have on the species from the Department of Parks and Wildlife or the Department of Environmental Regulation.