The East Cessnock bat colony site was set ablaze on Thursday morning for the fourth time in less than two weeks.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Two suspicious fires were lit on the weekend of May 14-15, with a third sparked on May 21.
Police from Central Hunter LAC are investigating and urge people with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The incidents have prompted Cessnock councillor Bryce Gibson to call for legislation to be changed to allow quick bat dispersal.
While unsure of the specific laws, Cr Gibson said government requirements made it hard to take action on the problem.
“I appreciate that we’ve got to follow a plan, but when did it become okay that this can occur and these bats get put before the learning of children and the quiet enjoyment of human beings?” Cr Gibson said.
“I’m not saying let’s kill bats but surely there’s got to be a proactive way that all levels of government can come together.”
The NSW Government announced earlier this week that a $1 million grant pool would be available for councils across the state to manage flying fox colonies.
Cessnock City Council is currently working with multiple organisations to develop a bat camp management plan.
Sage Swinton
Sage Swinton is a news reporter who was born and bred in the Hunter. She has been with the Newcastle Herald since June 2020, and covers Newcastle council as well as other general news.
Sage Swinton is a news reporter who was born and bred in the Hunter. She has been with the Newcastle Herald since June 2020, and covers Newcastle council as well as other general news.
