Today is International Bat Appreciation Day, but bats are definitely not appreciated in the centre of Bendigo.
Bendigo’s once beautiful Rosalind Park is now home to a colony of up to 38,000 bats which have damaged historic trees, covered pathways in excrement and created a large amount of noise.
“It seems the Labor Minister really does appreciate the bats because the State Government has done nothing about the serious concerns I have raised on behalf of the community,” the Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said today.
“The bats have stopped air ambulances being able to land at the hospital, adding up to 45 minutes to the patient’s treatment.
“Both Bendigo Senior Secondary College and Camp Hill Primary School adjoin the park, and the bat colony is just metres away on their doorstep.”
“Bats have ruined the amenity of the park, and we cannot ignore the fact that students are teachers are being forced to work in close proximity to thousands of bats.
“I’ve spoken with many local residents who no longer come to Rosalind Parks because of the bats.”
Ms Broad has repeatedly raised the issue following ongoing concerns from residents.
“The Allan Labor Government has refused to act to move the bats, and instead installed special sprinkler systems to keep them cool in summer.
“When a similar situation arose at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, the Government relocated the colony.
“Why did the Government take action on the bats in Melbourne, but not in a regional city?
“Once again I urge the State Government to listen to concerns raised by the local community and take action to relocate the bats from Rosalind Park in the heart of Bendigo.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au