Flying-Fox Relocation Progressing Well

Charters Towers Regional Council is pleased to report that the initial three-week Flying-Fox Relocation Program at Lissner Park has been successful with approximately 99% of the flying-foxes now successfully relocated to the designated Park Reserve area behind the Sewerage Treatment Plant.

The community’s support and cooperation have been instrumental in this success, and Council extends its sincere thanks to all residents and businesses who have assisted throughout the process.

Mayor Liz Schmidt reaffirmed the importance of the next phase of the program.

“The program has now entered the maintenance phase, which will continue until Tuesday, 3 June 2025.

“The maintenance phase is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term success of the relocation effort. We are now focusing on consistency and vigilance.

“This phase will involve ongoing monitoring and targeted dispersal across Charters Towers, aimed at preventing the re-establishment of flying-fox colonies in unsuitable urban locations”, said Mayor Schmidt.

What to Expect During the Maintenance Phase:

• Maintenance activity will occur throughout Charters Towers, only during active hours (5:00am–7:00am).
• Pyrotechnic noises and dispersal techniques will continue, though at a reduced level.
• Residents are strongly encouraged to keep pets indoors during these early morning hours.
• The Flying-Fox Hotline (1300 024 705) will remain active. Council urges residents to report any flying-foxes roosting in trees on private property, schools, healthcare facilities, aged care homes, or near the airport.

“Council have listened to community concerns around project costs, environmental impact, and ongoing maintenance, and is committed to continuing with professionalism and transparency every step of the way.

“We want to remind everyone to please use the 1300 024 705 hotline to report flying-fox activity in inappropriate locations. Your help is vital to keep flying-foxes from returning to our urban spaces”, Mayor Schmidt continued.

Council remains dedicated to minimising disruption while ensuring a safe and effective outcome for both the community and the local flying-fox population, with all dispersal activities conducted in line with Council’s Flying-Fox Management Plan and guided by the expertise of Biodiversity Australia.

Council thanks the community for their continued patience and understanding and will provide an additional update following the completion of the relocation program.

For more information head to www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/community/flyingfox

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