Griffith City Council has made the difficult decision to close the Lake Wyangan animal enclosure following an audit by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
As a result of the audit carried out on the animals and their enclosures, it was determined that the current facilities do not meet animal welfare and safety standards. As a result, corrective actions need to be taken by May 1, 2024, as directed by the Department.
These actions include ensuring daily health checks for each animal, establishing an outer fence to prevent unauthorised entry, and making necessary upgrades to the entry gate at the Lake Wyangan Picnic Ground. Additionally, Council is required to close the gate daily, including weekends and public holidays, to comply with safety regulations.
The estimated cost for these improvements is $86,495, with an annual requirement of $30,495. It’s important to note that the decision to implement these changes was directed by the Department of Primary Industries, not Council.
Griffith City Council Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran said the decision was not taken lightly.
“While there is a portion of the community that visits the animals, it’s been noted that there isn’t a consistent flow of visitors. It is unfortunate but also essential to prioritise the welfare and safety of both the animals and the community,” Councillor Curran said.
“Council certainly understands this isn’t an easy decision and of course some within our community will not be happy with the decision, however we are acting on advice from the DPI and we cannot ignore the welfare of the animals. The animals will all be rehomed and relocated.”
Currently there is a kangaroo, a cockatoo, 2 emu, 4 goats, 11 fallow deer, 4 ducks, 19 chickens, 2 Indian Peafowl (Peacock). The kangaroo, cockatoo and emu are prescribed species within the NSW Exhibited Animals Protection Act 1986 and associated regulation.
