Bass Coast Shire Council is encouraging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid contact with sick or dead birds and wildlife, as government agencies and local partners ramp up measures to protect Phillip Island's wildlife from H5N1 avian influenza, also known as bird flu.
The advice follows the detection of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza on Phillip Island, with Council working closely with Phillip Island Nature Parks, Westernport Water and Agriculture Victoria on a coordinated response across Bass Coast.
Following the Commonwealth's vaccine announcement yesterday, the Victorian Government today confirmed plans to vaccinate Phillip Island's little penguins against H5N1.
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor Cr Brett Tessari said that Council was working closely with agencies and partners to ensure a coordinated response across Bass Coast.
"Although we have been preparing for this event for some time, it is not the news we wanted to hear. Our wildlife is iconic; from our world-famous little penguins, our seal colony, and our short-tailed shearwaters, Phillip Island is home to them all, and our community is closely connected to the coast and these animals.
"Council is responding to this in partnership with other agencies. You might see signs in public places, like our beaches, advising you that a dead bird or animal has been reported.
"I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and understand their role in how and when to report anything of concern. Early reporting gives everyone the best possible chance to monitor the spread and minimise impacts. if you see something concerning, avoid it and report it.
"We also welcome the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments' announcement to vaccinate Phillip Island's little penguins against H5 bird flu, it's encouraging that proactive steps are being taken to help protect this iconic species.
"While we all have a role to play in responding to this outbreak, I do want to stress that Phillip Island and Bass Coast remain open for business. We want visitors to come and enjoy everything the region has to offer.
"Tourism is a cornerstone of our local economy, and I'll continue to do everything I can to showcase the incredible natural beauty, attractions and experiences that make Bass Coast such a special place to visit."
While the risk to human health remains very low, residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife, including birds and marine mammals.
What to do if you see sick or dead wildlife
AVOID
- Contact with sick or dead birds, wildlife or their environment.
RECORD
- What you see.
- The location.
- Photos or videos if it is safe to do so.
REPORT
- Clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species.
- A single sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird, bird of prey or marine mammal such as a seal, sea lion or dolphin.
Reports can be made through Agriculture Victoria's website: agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu
