Roos run riot

Originated by Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort, the investigation involved several organisations and individuals. 

“I will have a preliminary report to the golf club on key issues by mid to late January,” Ms Herbert, who has 20 years’ experience working with kangaroos, wallabies and koalas, told the Yarrawonga Chronicle.

“It will be a report about the next steps going forward. It’s a pro-active approach from the golf club.

“Some organisations wait until the situation gets critical. This way we’re open to a range of different options.”

Increased numbers of kangaroos have been reported on the 45-hole YMGCR course, in nearby streets in the rural residential area and in the township itself, including Mulwala Football Netball Club grounds and the grounds surrounding Mulwala Water Ski Club. 

Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort CEO Greg Ferguson and course superintendent Chris Burgess have had discussions on the subject and the CEO subsequently discussed the situation with Ms Herbert, resulting in her visit from Monday to Wednesday last week.

“We are wanting a management plan concerning the kangaroo situation and Cathy’s expertise will lead to that,” Mr Ferguson said.

The organisations have been recenty in talks with Ms Herbert included the ski club, the football netball club, Federation Council, National Parks and Wildlife and a State Government environment representative. All levels of government have therefore been involved at this first stage.

Mr Burgess welcomed the tour of the golf complex. “Many golfers have asked me about the kangaroo situation and what we’re doing about it. Well, we have taken action with Cathy here.

“It’s not so much about kangaroos causing damage to our course – the main thing would be laying in bunkers occasionally - but the potential for an attack on a person in view of their increasing numbers,” he said. 

“Greg and I talked about it and decided ‘let’s investigate it further’. It involves the community.”