Local landholders and residents will have the chance to gain hands-on advice on managing feral animals at a special workshop in Loomerah on Saturday, 1 November. The event, running from 10am to 12pm at 2060 Duri–Dungowan Road, will feature pest control expert Donald Barwick, who will share practical strategies to combat feral pigs, foxes, cats, and Indian mynas.
Feral animals are an ongoing challenge for many in the region, impacting crops, livestock, and native ecosystems. The workshop provides attendees with clear, no-nonsense advice on effective pest management strategies. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights from years of experience in the field.
The workshop is coordinated by Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA). Local Landcare Coordinator for Tamworth, Susan Wilson, says that Mr Barwick has run previous workshops for TRLA and is always a great source of knowledge.
“Donald is a professional hunter and trapper, and he has particular expertise in feral cats, foxes, and birds. He’s very passionate about controlling pests not only for the benefit of landholders but also for our native wildlife,” said Ms Wilson.
“He’s held a few workshops for us in Tamworth before, but this one will be held at his property, so he’ll be able to demonstrate some of the traps he uses. Basically, we’ve just left it as an open Q&A so attendees can ask for advice on dealing with any feral animal that they may find is an issue for them.”
The event will begin with morning tea on arrival, providing a chance for attendees to connect with fellow landholders and community members. The hands-on session will cover a range of strategies for controlling feral animals, from prevention and habitat management to effective control techniques tailored to local conditions.
Workshops like this aim not only to address immediate pest problems but also to foster a broader understanding of the environmental impact of feral species. By equipping landholders with practical knowledge, the organisers hope to support sustainable land management practices and strengthen community collaboration in pest control efforts.
“I really want to emphasise that this is not just for agricultural properties either. We are hearing from people in our urban areas that they are experiencing lots of issues with feral cats and Indian myna birds. So, regardless of whether you have 1000s of acres or just a couple of pots out the back, if you want practical advice for how to deal with feral animals in your backyard, please feel free to attend,” said Ms Wilson.
Ms Wilson also said there is a new initiative that will be rolled out in Tamworth in the near future to help combat the Indian myna issue.
“Off the back of a similar and very successful program in Dubbo, the Tamworth Bird Watchers have petitioned the council and we now have funding for a mobile aviary,” said Ms Wilson.
“The Tamworth Men’s Shed is currently building the aviary and trailer, and people will be able to trap Indian mynas and then take them to the mobile aviary where they will then be humanely euthanised.”
Attendance to the upcoming workshop is free, but spots are limited, so those interested are encouraged to RSVP in advance. For more information or to reserve a place, contact Susan Wilson on 0400 590 776 or via email at susan@trla.org.au.
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