Concerns are mounting over the increasing presence of feral chital deer in suburban areas on the Gold Coast, leading to calls for enhanced eradication efforts by local authorities. Chital deer, also referred to as spotted deer, are classified as a pest due to their destructive impact on natural habitats and competition with native wildlife.
Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, responsibility for managing feral deer populations lies with landholders and local councils. However, the Invasive Species Council is urging the state government to provide additional support to councils through increased funding and coordinated regional planning. They warn that the current situation could spiral out of control, as chital deer pose one of the most significant emerging threats among invasive species in Australia.
Reece Pianta, Advocacy Manager for the Invasive Species Council, emphasised the detrimental effects of feral deer, stating they degrade habitats, threaten the survival of native species, and create hazards on suburban roads, with residents already reporting traffic accidents. The absence of a comprehensive deer management plan for southeast Queensland further exacerbates the problem.
Pianta highlighted the inadequacies of the Queensland Feral Deer Management Strategy, noting that councils, already burdened with threats like fire ants, are under-resourced and lack support in addressing deer populations. She pointed out the absence of vital components such as population monitoring, economic impact studies, and regional leadership, contrasting this with the coordinated efforts seen in states like Victoria and New South Wales.
A spokesperson for the Gold Coast City Council underscored the necessity of collaboration among all stakeholders to manage the feral deer issue effectively. They reaffirmed the City’s commitment to working closely with the State Government, while acknowledging that additional resources are crucial for tackling the growing deer population.
Additionally, Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries highlighted their ongoing efforts, noting a strategic approach for stakeholders in managing feral deer populations. The department provides regular guidance and support to the Gold Coast City Council regarding control activities and engages in management-focused workshops across key areas in Queensland.
The rising numbers of feral deer, particularly in urban fringes like Merrimac and Nerang, signal an urgent need for action to safeguard habitats and community safety. Effective management strategies and collaboration between local and regional bodies will be essential in curbing the impact of these invasive species.