In great news the NSW Government’s announced today that Manly’s endangered Little Penguin population will be vaccinated against H5 bird flu, a critical step towards protecting one of Australia’s most vulnerable seabird colonies. 

Deputy Mayor Candy Bingham said the vaccination program was a positive outcome for the penguin colony and the broader Northern Beaches community.

“Our Little Penguins are so loved by our community and are an irreplaceable feature of our Northern Beaches local biodiversity,” Cr Bingham said. 

“Council had requested stronger protections for this endangered population and we welcome the NSW Government’s decision to vaccinate the colony against H5 bird flu.

“The impacts of this disease on wildlife populations overseas have been devastating. While we recognise there are no silver bullets to stopping the spread of the virus here, we must do everything we can to help protect these endangered birds before any local outbreak affects the colony.

“Alongside vaccination, continued vigilance and preparedness by all levels of government and the community will remain essential as the situation evolves.”

Council has been preparing for the impacts of H5 bird flu for several months, working with lead agency NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). 

Preparations include establishing a cross-Council Incident Management Team, identifying and mapping high-risk biodiversity areas, developing response plans and operational procedures, establishing reporting and escalation arrangements, and preparing staff, equipment and disposal processes to support a coordinated response if local cases are detected. 

“We will continue to monitor advice from NSW biosecurity authorities and work closely with partner agencies to support preparedness and response efforts across the Northern Beaches.

“Residents are reminded not to touch sick or dead birds or wildlife, to keep pets away from affected animals and to report sightings through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888,” Cr Bingham said.

For more information regarding H5 bird flu visit DPIRD website.