A petition calling for action on thousands of destructive corellas in Bridgewater has been tabled in State Parliament.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad sponsored the petition, highlighting the widespread damage the birds were causing to the town.
The petition had 497 signatures.
Ms Broad recently met with locals in Bridgewater and said the birds were having a huge impact on the community.
They have increased in numbers and compulsively chew objects to maintain their beaks at the right length and condition.
“If you can imagine thousands of corellas screeching every single day, day after day, you may get an insight into what it is like to live with a plague of destructive corellas on your doorstep,” Ms Broad said.
“Some residents are trying to build houses in the region, but they are being pulled apart by the birds.
“The new housing estate is at risk of delays and additional costs. Stunning river gums along the banks of the Loddon have absolutely been decimated.
“Corellas have caused damage to the power lines, to the lights in the street there – and the list goes on. The tourism industry there – the beautiful Bridgewater Caravan Park – is at risk, because if tourists come to the region and there is constant screeching, they certainly do not want to return.”
Ms Broad said the situation was having a huge impact on the mental health of residents, and the area had been devastated by floods in recent years as well.
“The Victorian Corella Strategy 2022–2032 was released last year, and it is a bit disappointing when you look at it, because it is not very clear what the approved methods are to actually manage these and how to help communities navigate this very difficult issue.”
Ms Broad congratulated the Bridgewater community on the petition and said the town needed the State Government’s support on this important issue.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
