Drones will be deployed across Warul Kawa. Photo: TSRA.
Invasive rats will be targeted by specialised bait drones in the western Torres Strait to combat a potential outbreak of devastating bird flu.
The Federal Government has revealed it will fork out more than $1.5 million to the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) to help make sure H5 avian influenza, known as bird flu, does not breach Australian biosecurity measures.
The black rats prey on nesting birds and their eggs, as well as compete for food on the island.
The Commonwealth funding will support traditional owners (represented by the Maluilgal Registered Native Title Body Corporate) to lead the targeted eradication of rats using drones to deploy baits across Warul Kawa (Deliverance Island) in Far North Queensland, according to a statement.
Warul Kawa is located south of Papua New Guinea, within the Ugul Malu Kawal Indigenous Protected Area.
The island is a key ecological and cultural site for traditional owners and Torres Strait Islander communities. It is also is a key resting point for many migratory birds, including the Pacific golden plover and iconic little tern.
Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt said the investment in the Torres Strait would help residents strengthen the island’s resilience against the virus.
“Australia is the only continent currently free of H5 bird flu, and we’re taking steps to bolster native bird populations, so they are more resilient if it arrives,” he said.
“Healthy habitats and strong populations give native species the best chance of withstanding the potential impacts of H5 bird flu. These projects will also have long-lasting conservation benefits.”
Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins said the measures were vital to protect the nation’s biodiversity.
“We’re taking the threat of H5 bird flu seriously, with our ongoing efforts demonstrating the strong biosecurity capability Australia is known for,” she said.
“Strengthening our preparedness to H5 bird flu is critical – not just for our valuable agricultural industries, but for our unique natural environment and the broader community.”
Leichhardt MP Matt Smith said the funding would safeguard migratory birds that relied on Warul Kawa.
“Eradicating rats on Warul Kawa will help protect migratory birds from H5 bird flu as they travel between Asia and Australia, ensuring that more survive the trip while reducing the risk of the disease spreading,” he said.
“Without rats on the island, local seabirds may return and once again use Warul Kawa as a breeding site.”
TSRA chairperson George Nona said the funding acknowledged the environmental, cultural and geographic importance of the region.
Torres Strait Regional Authority chairperson George Nona. Photo: TSRA.
“Positioned on Australia’s frontline, the Torres Strait is a diverse and unique region home to some of the nation’s richest environmental and cultural treasures,” he said.
“As a long-standing project partner and advocate, TSRA welcomes the broader recognition of this local-led project deeply rooted in the cultural governance and leadership of the Maluilgal RNTBC traditional owners.”
The funding is part of a broader $100 million investment by the Commonwealth to combat H5 bird flu.
