The City of Greater Geelong has installed a new Heat Stress Mitigation System at Eastern Park to support the health and survival of the threatened Grey-headed Flying-fox camp.
The system is a purpose-built sprinkler developed through extensive research, careful planning and innovative design. It supports flying-foxes during extreme heat events, prioritising both animal welfare and public safety.
To celebrate the project’s completion, a public event will be held during Nature Week on the evening of Wednesday 14 October. Residents will have the opportunity to tour the site. To book a spot visit: Meet Geelong’s Flying-foxes | Event, City of Greater Geelong
The project was championed by Friends of Bats and Bushcare who received $100,000 in support from the Victorian Government. The City contributed a further $120,000 to deliver the installation.
The City worked with wildlife experts and relevant agencies to ensure the system is safe and effective. It will only be activated when temperatures at the site are predicted to exceed 40 degrees.
Climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme heat events. These conditions can be dangerous for flying-foxes, making heat stress response an important part of long-term wildlife care.
City Services, Capital Works, Parks & Gardens portfolio chair, Councillor Trent Sullivan
The sprinkler system gives Geelong’s flying-foxes the best chance of surviving extreme heat days.
It’s been a great example of what we can achieve when the community, government and wildlife experts work together.
I’d like to thank Friends of Bats and Bushcare and Bats of Geelong for their advocacy and dedication in helping bring this project to life.
Bats of Geelong founder and secretary Leila Merritt
The sprinkler system is so important for the health and wellbeing of our flying-fox camp, especially through the hot summer months.
Seeing it finally completed is incredibly rewarding and a really proud moment for Geelong.
The sprinkler system will be operated in line with guidelines developed with support from Zoos Victoria and Parks Victoria, which manage a similar system at the Yarra Bend flying-fox camp.
The nationally significant Eastern Park flying-fox camp was established in 2003. They’re particularly active during summer when more than 10,000 flying-foxes are often seen.
Residents are asked to admire the flying-foxes from a distance and avoid loud noises, which can disturb adults and cause them to leave their pups.
Trained wildlife volunteers regularly monitor the camp and rescue sick and injured bats. If you find a sick or injured flying-fox, contact Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300 so a wildlife rescuer can assist.
