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A planned aerial 1080 baiting program targeting feral pigs across Eungella National Park and Cathu State Forest has been postponed, with Mackay Regional Council to hold a public information session before the program is rescheduled.
Originally scheduled for 14th October, the program was postponed due to forecast adverse weather conditions, with the delay also providing an opportunity for further community consultation following concerns raised about the proposed baiting measures.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP said he had been working with relevant authorities to ensure community concerns were heard and residents had access to more information about the program.
“I have been advised that the program includes environmental risk assessments and operational safeguards designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the significant damage caused by feral pigs,” Mr Kelly said.
“It is important that we continue to manage feral pig populations effectively while ensuring residents and landholders are properly informed and have an opportunity to raise any concerns.
“I appreciate the cooperation of those involved in allowing further consultation to take place and encourage the community to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
Council is coordinating the program in partnership with local landholders, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) providing funding support.
Mackay Regional Council said landholders had been requesting feral pig management programs following increased pig activity after successive wet seasons.
The pests have been causing significant damage to properties, agricultural land and the environment, while also posing a threat to primary industry operations across the area.
Environmental risk assessments conducted by the State Government, alongside operational safeguards, have been designed to minimise impacts on native wildlife while addressing the damage caused by feral pigs.
Aerial baiting forms part of a broader coordinated syndicate program, which also includes ground-based control measures such as trapping and shooting.
Mr Kelly acknowledged the importance of managing feral pig populations while ensuring residents and landholders had an opportunity to understand the proposed measures and raise any concerns.
With the postponement, council will work with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to organise a public information session at Eungella before the program is delivered.
Residents and landholders are encouraged to engage with Mackay Regional Council as it coordinates the next steps.
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