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TERREY HILLS SAFETY ISSUE
Please be aware that there is currently a Development Application (DA 2008/1108) before Warringah Council to extend the filming in Kinka Rd, Terrey Hills for a further 3 years. There has been some concern from members who are residents and/or riders in that area, about the negative impact of the extra traffic and other filming-associated hazards on horse and rider safety. Council is accepting written and online submissions pertaining to this DA until the 16th of september. If you are interested in providing feedback to the council, you will find the DA at http://www.warringah.nsw.gov.au/ecouncil/ecouncildisclaimer.aspx
Domestic dogs a threat to wildlife at Ku-ring-gai Chase
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is urging local residents to keep their dogs out of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, following a spate of reports of attacks on native wildlife.
Swamp wallabies are at risk from dogs roaming in the national park
"Most recently domestic dogs were seen chasing a possum along the Perimeter Trail of the park at Terry Hills and Duffys forest, and earlier this year the death of several swamp wallabies in the same area was most likely the result of dog attacks," said Regional Manager, Chris McIntosh.
"Based on reports from the local horse riding community and park neighbours, NPWS believes that domestic dogs allowed to wander at night are the most likely culprits," he said.
"Two wallabies were found with puncture wounds, bruises and ripped muscles, which a local vet said could have been caused by dogs shaking them through their canines.
"Numerous dog prints were recently observed, after NPWS placed sandpads across the trails to monitor animal activity in the area. NPWS also analysed dog faeces found within the national park, several of which contained possum, bandicoot and wallaby hairs."
Mr McIntosh said, "this is depressing news, especially as fox-control programs carried out over the last five years have resulted in reports of an increase of native animals in the area, including swamp wallabies, echidnas, lyrebirds, brush turkeys, bandicoots and powerful owls. It is absolutely vital that these efforts are not threatened by domestic animals entering the park.
"The NPWS has invested considerable effort over the years into raising the conservation message regarding the inappropriateness of having dogs in national parks, however it is likely that some neighbours are unaware that their pets are roaming at night.
"The death of wildlife is tragic and can leave orphaned and unprotected young native animals.
"Dog faeces and urine can also carry diseases that effect native wildlife, as well as add nutrients to the soil that promotes the spread of weeds," he said.
It is an offence under the National Parks & Wildlife Act to allow dogs to enter a national park without special approval. People with dogs can expect to be issued an on-the-spot fine. Uncontrolled or unaccompanied dogs found within a National Park can be impounded and the owners issued with a fine of up to $1100.