Promises, promises, promises. It’s election time.

Well, here we are in the land of promises again – it’s election time. A time to ponder on all those
phone calls coming through to WILVOS Hotline 5441 6200. Who is going to make decisions to help
our wildlife?
I began listening to Mayoral candidates early in the peace and it was like the environment was a dirty
word – along with the hinterland, it barely warranted a mention. I did become a little more optimistic
on hearing one candidate refer to hinterland towns as jewels in a crown. Yes, they are!
We don’t want miracles – just simple solutions! Maybe enforcing regulations in off-leash dog areas to
prevent injury to wildlife such as turtles on the coast, and kangaroos, possums, birds and reptiles on
walking trails such as the Mount Ninderry walk. There are so many dog owners who are responsible.
Why should they be denied more of these areas when they are doing the right thing. Others, a little
less smart than their dogs, see off-leash areas as places where their dogs can run wild. We need safe
off-leash areas, and will need even more in the future, but these can only be established and
maintained if offenders receive fines. Rate payers don’t want to contact their local councillor just to
hear, “we can’t afford the manpower”.
There are so many topics on the agenda for council candidates and so many problems to be solved.
Some are urgent and compassion is needed, as we can’t ignore our many struggling individuals and
families. A councillor needs to commit to their job 24/7. Wildlife volunteers do that year in year out,
with no remuneration.
Hopefully our new council will have the skills and passion to sustainably grow our little area of
paradise into a safe environment for people and animals. Our released, rehabilitated wildlife depend
on it.
Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast Mail
Centre Q 4560 PH 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au