Busselton's Kookaburra Caravan Park is a well known stronghold for the endangered Western Ringtail Possum.  A recent night survey revealed over 46 possums feeding and resting on the unique West Australian Peppermint Trees.

Unfortunately over the last few years these Peppermint Trees have been in decline, partly due to the high density of possums in the Caravan Park and the over-grazing of trees.

Recently a meeting with key stakeholders, including the Manager of the Kookaburra Caravan Park; representatives from the Shire; the Department of Environment and Conservation; GeoCatch and the Busselton Possum Centre, sought to address ways of improving tree health in the Caravan Park, which would ultimately lead to an improvement in the conditions in which the  Western Ringtail Possums obviously thrive.  Longer-term recommendations to improve pruning and tree maintenance techniques in the Caravan Park were also discussed.

Shire President, Cr Wes Hartley, said "The improvement of habitat for Western Ringtail Possums has always been a priority for the Shire in a rapidly growing settled environment and new WA Peppermint trees would be planted in the Caravan Park, on the road verge and in the Pioneer Cemetery so as to provide additional habitat for these unique creatures.  Such plantings would be the beginning of a 10-year plan, including a detailed tree replacement program, as a way of addressing the issue".

Other shorter-term methods would be trialled in coming weeks, including trunk collards being installed around the worst affected trees, so there is a temporary respite from grazing.  Various deterrents such as reflective safety tape and motion-sensor lights would also be installed in some of the worst affected trees, so as to reduce grazing pressure.  The last group of affected trees would be treated with nutrient plugs that will act as a vitamin boost to assist with recovery.

These measures will be implemented under supervision and monitoring from the Environmental staff at the Shire, with support from the Department of Environment and Conservation, GeoCatch and the Busselton Possum Centre, so as to ensure the welfare of Western Ringtail Possums present on the site.

The Manager of the Kookaburra Caravan Park, Greg Carr, said "It is inevitable that some trees will need to be removed over the next few years, when they reach old age and become a safety hazard for campers.  However, the proposed new measures should increase the lifespan of these majestic trees that offer much needed habitat to the Western Ringtail Possum, while also providing a pleasant camping experience to visitors."

ENDS

Media enquiries can be directed to the Shire's Public Relations Officer, Helena Webb on 97810446 or helena.webb@busselton.wa.gov.au