The revitalisation project at Wilsons Promontory, announced over five years ago, is once again in the spotlight as Danny O’Brien, the Nationals Member for Gippsland South, urged immediate action. Speaking in Parliament, O’Brien highlighted the delayed start of the long-anticipated project, which includes the construction of a predator-proof fence.
Parks Victoria indicated that the tender for the Prom Sanctuary Fence closed on July 23, 2022, with plans to appoint a contractor soon and commence construction by early 2026. O’Brien expressed frustration over the timeline, stating, “Here we are in 2026 and construction has not even begun. That is simply not good enough.”
The Victorian Government initially announced a $23 million investment in the Wilsons Prom Revitalisation Program in November 2020. The project aims to create a protected biosphere by constructing a 10-kilometre fence along the Yanakie Isthmus. This initiative is designed to exclude invasive species such as foxes, feral cats, and deer, thereby enhancing biodiversity protection and facilitating the reintroduction of native species.
O’Brien emphasized that the project has been a topic of discussion for years, with local communities justifiably expecting action. He noted, “The Nationals and Liberals committed to the project well before Labor adopted it.” He called on the government to overcome its delays and initiate construction of the sanctuary without further postponement.
In response, Tom McIntosh, the Labor Member for Eastern Victoria, clarified that careful planning has been undertaken regarding the fence’s alignment and construction methodology. He highlighted that Parks Victoria has engaged with local landowners and environmental groups throughout the planning process.
Parks Victoria has now completed a competitive tender process and appointed a qualified contractor to lead the project. McIntosh’s office confirmed that the contractor will collaborate closely with the Odonata Foundation, leveraging their expertise in wildlife protection and sanctuary management.
“Parks Victoria is now finalising logistics, construction staging, and detailed environmental management measures in consultation with the contractor,” McIntosh stated. Construction of the predator-proof fence is expected to begin in the coming weeks, marking a crucial step forward for the Wilsons Promontory project and its goal of preserving the natural environment.
The renewed focus on the Wilsons Promontory revitalisation project reflects ongoing community interest and the need for effective measures to protect native wildlife. The successful implementation of this project will not only enhance biodiversity but also reaffirm the government’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
