A seaside community was left fuming after a vigilant local noticed sinister-looking signs along a popular walking path, prompting a stern warning from council.
Residents at Sunshine Beach in Noosa were alarmed this week after spotting a set of signs that warned “1080 poison baits” had been laid along the local fire track. “Domestic dogs, pets and animals may be affected if they eat baits or dead animals,” it read. “Protect by restraining or muzzling.”
Residents quickly pointed out that under Queensland law, the use of 1080 poison bait is tightly controlled and cannot be laid in public areas without explicit approval from the relevant agencies, such as Queensland Parks and Wildlife or local councils.
1080 is extremely toxic to both pets and wildlife. It requires a permit to lay and is fatal if ingested. Source: Tony Alison/Facebook
The toxin is highly potent and poses a serious risk to domestic pets, wildlife, and even scavenging birds if misused. Exposure to 1080 can be extremely distressing and often fatal for animals. It’s been linked to many such poisonings in the past.
“Does anyone know about these signs at the back of Sunrise Beach on the fire track? The council and parks and wildlife don’t,” a local man wrote. “If you’re using this, do you know the damage it does to wildlife — and not just our dogs and cats.” In response, some wondered whether the signs were placed to deter dog walkers.
“If this is a deterrent, how far are you willing to go to stop the dogs from being walked around the fire trail?” the man said. When pets ingest 1080 bait, the results can be devastating. Symptoms include vomiting, convulsions and paralysis, and recovery is rare once the poison has been ingested.
Noosa Council responds after residents speak out
Yahoo News questioned the Noosa Council over the signs. It confirmed they were not placed by council, and that “no 1080 baiting activities” have been “approved or carried out in the Sunrise Beach area.”
“The baiting signs at Sunrise Beach were removed by Council,” a spokesperson said. “It is believed they were placed there by a member of the public.
“Baiting activities are strictly regulated by the State Government and are not permitted to occur within 5km of a town unless approved. Residents are encouraged to contact Council if they have any questions or concerns regarding baiting.”
Under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001, it’s an offence to lay a bait or harmful/poisonous substance with the intention of injuring or killing an animal. The maximum penalty for an individual is $50,070 or one year’s imprisonment.
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