As the Rabbit Sweep we have spent a lot of time and energy learning about possibilities with respect to control of rabbits. At last, we are moving into preliminary action!
There is an event planned for November 23. In Rabbit Sweep style, We want to offer demos in the various techniques used for rabbit control and have experts available to discuss them and answer questions. So we are planning a day (10.00 am to 4.00 pm) which will be on 3 sites close by on the Bellarine. We are expecting families and hope they will bring picnics so everyone can have lunch together.
Our strategy involves trying to segment the many techniques so it is easy for someone, perhaps with kids, to look for, identify, record, smoke, include in RabbitScan, a warren in preparation for someone else to fumigate it when they have gone. There are other examples.
We have tried to investigate the various methods - we are supporting the role of the Ag Dept and VRAN and others to have the expertise. Instead of replicating it, we want it included in the catalogue of rabbit control resources so it can be easily found by anyone.
We are having a demo day so we can see how effective it is to have people watching and questioning what is being done - we think that is a good way to learn and it makes for transmission of know-how through experience. We also know that working with a colleague is often better than working alone so the Sweep plans to help people find those willing colleagues.cPlease join us and help us! If you or someone working with you, for you, someone you know can come along and make the most of the day, we would be really grateful.
We will be covering the range of techniques and hopefully introduce volunteers to people who would like help and, in other cases, connect them to contractors who might do the work.
City of Greater Geelong spends more than $250,000 per year of our money on rabbit control. They work on public land but we know it is more effective if private landholders with adjacent sites can continue their work.
Please let your neighbours and friends know about this event. Perhaps you have people who you would like to bring to the event so you can see how they might work with you, or you with them.
We are asking everyone to register their interest now and we will send all the details for the event in the week of the event.
For the diary, a reminder:
Date: Saturday, 23rd November 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Bellarine Region (Multiple Stops)
This fun and educational day will feature a simple trail across our beautiful Bellarine region. Participants can chose the family-friendly options while having access to in-depth educational experts and demonstrations.
The event will break at lunchtime for a BYO picnic at a designated spot, providing an opportunity to meet fellow nature lovers, relax in the company of like-minded people, and see for yourself the value of excluding rabbits from the environment.
What participants will need to bring:
• a picnic lunch and drinks
• sunscreen and hats
• a passion for preserving our environment!
Please register now to receive more details closer to the event.
