Council endorses creation of new long-term plan to manage flying-foxes

Published on 29 October 2025

Gympie Regional Council has endorsed the creation of a new Commissioners Gully Flying-Fox Roost Management and Dispersal Plan, marking an important milestone for residents living near the Commissioners Gully roost.

Endorsed at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, 29 October, the proposed new plan will outline the next steps Council will actively pursue to address the roost, which provides habitat for several species of flying-fox protected under both federal and state legislation. Steps include seeking government funding for vegetation management and dispersal activities, pursuing legislative reform, exploring a potential buyback scheme for affected residents, and maintaining ongoing engagement with affected residents.

Gympie Regional Council Mayor, Glen Hartwig said the plan represented progress on an issue that had long affected nearby residents.

“On a number of occasions, I’ve visited residents who live close to the roost and seen firsthand how difficult it can be to live with the constant noise, smell, and disruption that comes with a large flying-fox colony,” Cr. Hartwig said.

“Meaningful progress, however, can only be achieved if all levels of government work together to provide the resources and support needed to help affected residents, who continue to deal with significant impacts daily.

“This case highlights the urgent need for higher levels of government to reform legislation so that people’s wellbeing and livelihoods take priority over flying-foxes, a key component of what Council wants included in the proposed new plan.

“We’re aiming for outcomes that are environmentally responsible, financially realistic and most importantly, responsive to the needs of those residents who have been seeking a resolution for many years.”

To date, Council has implemented a range of approved management activities to help reduce impacts on nearby residents while supporting the long-term conservation of flying-foxes. This has included minor vegetation management and the use of deterrents, such as specialised sprinklers, to gently encourage flying-foxes to move to less sensitive areas within the roost.

Council continues to provide direct assistance to residents through its Rolling Community Grants Program. The program provides financial support to residents who have been affected, helping fund practical measures such as building modifications to reduce odour and noise, cleaning services and equipment, protective covers for outdoor areas and vegetation management on private properties.

Regular engagement with affected residents remains a key part of Council’s approach, ensuring open communication, continued support and collaboration throughout this process.

The proposed new plan builds on Council’s ongoing commitment to managing flying-fox impacts, as outlined in the Commissioner Gully Flying Fox Management Plan (2021) and the Regional Flying Fox Management Plan (2025).

For more information about the Commissioners Gully flying fox roost, visit www.gympie.qld.gov.au/flying-foxes