Biosecurity
Last week I attended the South Region Biosecurity Forum held in Toowoomba.
Biosecurity issues do not recognise map boundaries and a concerted and co-ordinated preparedness and response across local government areas is essential.
Issues covered included invasive species management including significant weeds, fire ants, feral deer (Toowoomba recorded 161 deer in a four hour survey and Gold Coast removed 150 deer in 2025, there being herds of more than 100 still there; they are on the mountain), non-domestic cat removal (“non-owned” cats), QLD Wild Dog Offensive, H5N1 (bird flu), feedlots, and agritourism (presentation by Kay Tommerup).
Plenty of learnings which can be adopted/adapted to suit our region.
September issues/complaints raised – Division 1
A large number of issues relating to negative interactions between residents and the wild dog/dingo have been reported – unfortunately our local Facebook pages appear reluctant to post negative comments, incessantly barking dogs, uncontained dogs and cats, unapproved dwellings and operational works, tree clearing, unlawful land use, and the usual large number of “If I buy property xxx, what can I do with it?” enquiries.
Dogs
There has been a significant increase in the number of dog registrations (now overdue) not renewed.
Dogs owned by rental tenants must be registered.
Multiple properties with more than two dogs on site without approval or any registrations – compliance action has commenced.
Tourism businesses and operators
As part of its tourism-related functions, Council undertakes internal checks to ensure businesses and operators meet relevant requirements that fall within its legislative responsibilities, including under our Planning Scheme and Local Laws.
Council does not check if permits required under State legislation or administered by other government agencies are in place, nor does Council handle complaints about unpermitted activities.
Reminder
Next chat with the Mayor 9am to 10am Friday November 13 outside the library.
I will also be available for a drop-in session from 10.30-12 noon.
