At its 21 July 2026 meeting, Council considered two Notices of Motion relating to Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve.
Raising the Notices of Motion provided Council with an opportunity to correct the public record, reaffirm Council as the responsible land manager of the Reserve and reiterate the good governance practices required for an incorporated association operating on Council land.
Council first resolved to support Crime Stoppers Victoria's public appeal for information relating to the suspected illegal relocation of Growling Grass Frogs into Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve.
The investigation remains the responsibility of the relevant authorities and Council will continue working cooperatively with those agencies to protect the environmental values of the reserve.
Bayside Mayor, Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes said by supporting Crime Stoppers Victoria's public appeal, Council is encouraging anyone with information to come forward through the appropriate channels.
"Management and accountability for the Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve rests with Council, and we take that responsibility seriously," says Cr Taylor-Haynes said.
"The translocation of endangered species is both unlawful and cruel. This decision supports the investigation while respecting the role of the authorities responsible for it."
Council will consider a future report on opportunities to financially support a reward for information on the illegal translocation and how any such reward could be administered.
Secondly, Council also considered a Notice of Motion relating to governance, environmental, public safety and operational matters concerning the Yalukit Willam Nature Association.
This Notice of Motion was withdrawn, however Councillors impressed on the importance of commencing mediation with representatives of the Yalukit Willam Nature Association Committee as soon as possible.
Cr Taylor-Haynes said the mediation process is about strengthening future working relationships in the interests of the Reserve.
"Council and volunteers share the goal of ensuring that this reserve continues to thrive for future generations. We value the contribution made by the Yalukit Willam Nature Association and its volunteers over many years, and we look forward to constructive discussions about the reserve's future," Cr Taylor-Haynes said.
"Our responsibility is to ensure Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve is managed in a way that protects its environmental values, supports public safety and reflects good governance."
