On Tuesday 11 June 2024 at the Growing Winchelsea community forum, there was lively chatter about one of our most pressing issues – corellas.
Chris Pike, General Manager Placemaking & Environment with Surf Coast Shire indicated that the shire has submitted a funding application for $50,000 to the Victorian Government under the Corella Management Grants Program with an expected announcement due before the end of June 2024.
“The project to be undertaken in partnership with Growing Winchelsea seeks to disrupt life for the corellas. Specific plans include modifying the existing habitat and planting choices that discourage Corellas with provision of nesting platforms that are favourable for predator birds such as peregrine falcon,” said Chris.
A community member talked about the success she and a neighbour had moving on the birds from the surrounding area of their homes through the use of lights at dusk to disrupt the roosting of corellas. She also talked about the use of fake owls and eagles placed on houses and flying freely from high in trees that other people had success with.
“It is positive that Council is keen to work with the community to initiate action that will limit the impact to the environment to businesses and to the community. Together we will find a solution. If you want to be part of the solution we would love to hear from you, just email secretary@growingwinchelsea or telephone our Secretary Elaine Atkinson on 0458 009616,”
concluded John Tebbutt, President of Growing Winchelsea.