Northern Beaches Council has released a draft plan for the management of flying-foxes in colonies in Balgowlah, Avalon and Warriewood and is encouraging the community to have their say.

The 5-year draft management plan sets out a three-tiered management approach with a focus on:

  • routine reserve maintenance (e.g. mowing, path maintenance, revegetation, weed control, hazardous tree management)
  • support for affected residents
  • community education
  • maintenance of existing buffers between properties and flying-foxes
  • habitat restoration in less populated areas.

CEO Ray Brownlee said the draft strategy sought to balance the need to protect flying-foxes as a threatened species while reducing their impact on residents who live near the camps.

“As a species in decline across Australia and listed as threatened by the State and Federal governments, we have an obligation to ensure they are protected.

“This species plays an important role in pollinating our forests, so it's crucial we do our bit.

“However, we recognise that there can be impacts on people living near flying-fox camps. 

“The draft plan seeks to minimise those impacts by maintaining buffer zones, offering support to residents and providing alternative habitat in less populated areas.

“We welcome feedback on the draft plan and encourage residents to have their say.”

The draft plan will be on exhibition until Sunday 20 November 2022. Residents can learn more, book a meeting with a Council officer, or attend the online information session on 10 November, and make a submission here.