Flinders Island, off South Australia’s West Coast is now off limits – but it’s only temporary and it’s for a very good reason.
Work has begun on the on-ground eradication of rodents and feral cats on the picturesque isle, a vital step towards transforming it into a safe haven for threatened species.
The island, offshore from Elliston, is now closed to visitors for the rest of the year to ensure the health and safety of the public and the success of the operations.
This includes a marine buffer in place 100m offshore from the high tide mark – from the first bait drop on May 5 until mid-June, subject to weather conditions.
The restoration of Flinders Island (external site) (external site) will transform South Australia’s fourth largest island (4000 ha) into Australia’s network of havens which consists of more than 100 predator free islands and 20 fenced are
as that contain vulnerable mammals.
The project aims to protect and restore the island’s unique ecosystem by eradicating cats, rats and mice.
Upon successful eradication of these pests, threatened plant and animal species can be introduced to the island. This will create a lasting impact that will stimulate conservation and nature-based tourism with opportunities for the community to get involved.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water and the Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board in partnership with the Woolford family.
Speaking earlier in the year, the board’s general manager Jonathan Clark said the organisation was proud to be a part of the project.
"This is a significant opportunity to lead by example in South Australia to develop and test the methods for large scale island and safe haven best practise rodent and feral cat control," Mr Clark said.
"It is wonderful to see investment in the region working closely with the Woolfords and the local Elliston community to ensure the long-term conservation of Flinders Island, recognising the importance of the island as a safe haven climate-critical habitat.”
