Newsroom

November 15, 2024

KATTER’s Australian Party MP Bob Katter is demanding immediate action to rid Charters Towers of plague-like flying fox populations once and for all.

“Once again, flying foxes have returned to Charters Towers, stripping our fruit trees, placing our residents in danger and restricting the use and enjoyment of public areas,” lamented Mr Katter.

The town of Charters Towers has been under siege on and off for years due to the overwhelming amount of the pests.

“Year after year we should not have to wait for the problem to get out of hand before we act,” Mr Katter explained.

Mr Katter has written to the Mayor of Charters Towers Regional Council, calling on Council to reinstate relocation measures developed alongside Biodiversity Australia to resolve the issue and thoroughly investigate culling.

“If it’s relocation, then let’s make it happen. Let’s also reduce numbers to a more sustainable level by culling. You can’t expect people to live like this.

“Your home should be your castle – a place of peace and escape – and we are expecting people to accept that they can’t go in the backyard or take the kids to the park without having to worry about these bloody bats.”

Flying foxes have been found to host the Hendra virus, which can be passed to livestock and humans via bat urine infecting drinking water.

Mr Katter also reminded Council of the farmers and their need for immediate solutions to reduce crop impacts and economic losses.

“All measures should be investigated to provide a long-term solution ensuring the community and farmland have a sustainable flying fox population.”

Residents and business owners have expressed frustration and disappointment as local and state government departments continue around the mountain instead of achieving long-term results.

“The urgency of this issue cannot be understated. Council needs to act and act NOW!”