Griffith City Council has today announced it 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, the Council said in a statement.
“As a result, corrective actions need to be taken by May 1, 2024, as directed by the Department,” Council says.
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, explained Mayor, Doug Curran, who said the decision to close the enclosure 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,” he 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 one kangaroo, one cockatoo, two emu, four goats, 11 fallow deer, four ducks, 19 chickens, two Indian Peafowl (Peacock). The kangaroo, cockatoo and emu are prescribed species within the NSW Exhibited Animals Protection Act 1986 and associated regulation.
