Agricultural
9 June, 2022
Have your say on feral deer strategy
Queenslanders are being encouraged to have their say on a new strategy for dealing with the impacts of feral deer.
Feral deer have been spotted in recent years on the northern side of Westbrook.
Fallow deer, a restricted invasive anmal species native to Iran and Iraq, were released at Westbrook between 1870 and 1872, although according to a Department of Natural Resources and Mines report from 2005 this population died out when the land was cleared for agriculture.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said feral deer numbers were growing and posing an increasing threat to biodiversity, agriculture and public safety.
“Under the new strategy we aim to make feral deer management more effective through partnerships and planning,” Mr Furner said.
“Because they’re so mobile, deer graze across large areas and control efforts are most effective when conducted cooperatively with other land managers and local groups.
“It’s also very important to prevent any releases or escapes by domesticated deer, or relocation of feral deer.”
Mr Furner said the draft strategy sets out the goals and objectives for stakeholders to help them better understand their responsibilities.
“It also provides guidance for local government biosecurity planning and encourages a coordinated approach to managing feral deer,” he said.
“We know that different stakeholders have different viewpoints, so we’re seeking as much feedback as possible through public consultation to further refine the strategy.”
Feral deer are restricted invasive animals under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Part of the strategy review is to update it to reflect the current legislation.
Consultation is open until 30 June 2022 at daf.engagementhub.com.au
