A CULL of more than 1200 kangaroos has been given the green light by the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal to protect biodiversity in seven local reserves. 

ACAT made the decision to begin the cull from tomorrow and uphold licences issued by the Conservator of Flora and Fauna after a hearing today. 

“The outcome of the hearing supports the scientific basis that underpins the need to undertake the conservation cull of Eastern grey kangaroos in the ACT,” says Director of ACT Parks and Conservation Daniel Iglesias.

ACAT has ruled that culling can take place in each of the seven proposed reserves and adjacent unleased land.

There has been a reduction in numbers for five of the licences, meaning the conservation cull is for up to 1244 kangaroos, rather than the original plan of 1455.

“The conservation cull is needed to maintain populations at appropriate levels to minimise impact on other flora and fauna,” Mr Iglesias says.

“Ensuring that grasslands and woodlands are not overgrazed will protect threatened species and ecosystems, provide habitat for creatures such as lizards and ground-feeding birds, prevent excessive soil loss and maintain sustainable numbers of kangaroos.”

The reserves will close again from midday tomorrow until midday on Thursday August 1 to allow the conservation cull to take place. The closures are for 24 hours per day and have been implemented to best meet operational and safety requirements.

While shooting will not take place during daylight hours, it may take place at dusk or dawn.

Mr Iglesias has asked any protesters to “respect the closure” and to respect the legal process and not do anything which could jeopardise their safety or that of contractors.

Penalties of up to $5500 apply under the Nature Conservation Act 1980 for trespassing.

The sites to be closed for the conservation cull are Callum Brae Nature Reserve, Goorooyaroo Nature Reserve and adjacent unleased territory land, Kama Nature Reserve, Mulanggari Nature Reserve, Mt Painter Nature Reserve, Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve and The Pinnacle Nature Reserve and adjacent unleased territory land.

For more information on the conservation cull please visit www.tams.act.gov.au