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A local agile wallaby conservation group has been given the green light to relocate more animals from Trinity Beach.
The Agile Project will receive $40,000 to relocate another 400 animals from the residential area, councillors voted unanimously today.
The grant, along with state government approval, allows the volunteer-run group to continue Australia’s largest macropod relocation.
Since receiving an initial relocation permit – also for 400 animals – the organisation has been gradually transferring the trapped wallabies to private bush blocks outside of Cairns.
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The Agile Project put the call out for more support in August after the outbreak of a parasitic disease among wallabies in the northern beaches.
Shai Ager, founder of The Agile Project, said wallabies trapped in residential areas also often fall victim to car strikes and dog attacks.
“Cairns Council are stepping up and showing their support in a tremendous way by committing to much-needed funds that will help our non-profit group relocate another 400 wallabies,” she said.
“[We’re] proud to be part of this Cairns community.
“Wildlife is finally being taken into consideration.
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Cairns Regional Council will also formally write to Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon, to fund the sterilisation of 200 to 300 remaining Trinity Beach wallabies.
“We are strong advocates of this strategy as it’s a humane solution to population stabilisation, after the relocation,” Ms Ager said.
“We encourage the state government to follow Cairns Regional Council’s lead and assist with this management proposal.”
The Council has already installed over $170,000 in perimeter fencing and gates to stop the wallabies accessing the sporting precinct’s playing surfaces.
Main points
- Volunteer-run The Agile Project attends to sick, injured and orphaned wallabies
- The group has received $40,000 and a second permit to relocate another 400 animals
- Agile wallabies will be moved from Trinity Beach Sporting Precinct to private bush blocks outside of Cairns
