Agricultural
17 March, 2022
Local councils want feedback on rabbit board
Rural landholders in the Toowoomba and Southern Downs regions can participate in a survey to provide feedback on the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board (DDMRB).
The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) is undertaking the review into the role, effectiveness and funding arrangements of the DDMRB.
It aims to examine the effectiveness and the future role of the DDMRB and
rabbit fence in a modern invasive animal control context.
Toowoomba Regional Council Environment and Community Committee portfolio leader and DDMRB board member Cr Tim McMahon said he encouraged all rural landholders to have their say by taking part in the survey.
“Rabbit control is an important part of maintaining productive agricultural land,” Cr McMahon said.
“This survey review aims to understand the perceived effectiveness of the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board and determine how best to fund its activities which include monitoring, enforcement, education and maintenance of the rabbit fence.
“At present, eight local governments fund all activities undertaken by the Board, with Toowoomba Regional Council contributing the largest share of the funding each year.
“No additional resources are contributed from the State Government, industry or landholders."
Southern Downs Councillor Jo McNally said rabbits can have significant impacts on agricultural producers in southern Queensland.
“The fence protects agricultural land in southern Queensland from the northern migration of rabbits and is complemented by the DDMRB’s monitoring, enforcement, and education activities in the protected area,” Cr McNally said.
“DDMRB staff undertake patrols and maintenance of the fence and conduct surveillance, property inspections, provide rabbit management advice and compliance activities in the board area which is located on the northern side of the rabbit fence.
“If you are a rural land-holder running an agricultural enterprise in the DDMRB area, now is the time to engage and give DAF your valuable feedback.”
All survey responses are anonymous and will be non-identifiable.
To take part, visit here.
