Craigie Bushland FAQs

Q1 What is happening at Craigie Bushland?

A1 In October 2008, the Joondalup Council endorsed a proposal to protect native animals and plants from feral animals like cats, foxes and rabbits to ensure that the Craigie Bushland environment is protected for future generations.  Building a feral-proof fence around a large section of Craigie Bushland has almost finished and this is the first stage of creating an animal sanctuary.

Q2 What research has been undertaken for this project?

A2 In 2005, the City received a consultant’s preliminary investigation into the concept of a wildlife sanctuary at Craigie Bushland, which instigated the current project. Prior to endorsing the proposal, the City consulted with the Water Corporation, several local environmental groups, operators of animal sanctuaries throughout Australia and representatives of local indigenous groups.

Q3 Will the local community still have access to Craigie Bushland?

A3 The community will have access to Craigie Bushland except for when work is being carried out within the fenced off area relating to the maintenance of the animal sanctuary.

Q4 Will dogs be allowed in the fenced-off area?

A4 Dogs will not be allowed access into the fenced enclosure. Dogs in the bushland will disrupt the normal activities of native animals, like breeding and feeding. Dogs will still be welcome along the perimeter pathway at Craigie Bushland and also in the City’s other large bushland reserves like Warwick Bushland and Hepburn Heights Bushland.

Q5 How will the City eradicate the feral animals from Craigie Bushland?

A5 The City will have several methods to rid the area of feral animals, which are all State Government approved including the use of poison baits and trapping. The use of baits will not pose any risk to local residents or visitors as the fenced area will be completely sealed off from the public during this period.

Q6 What is the next step in the process to achieving an animal sanctuary at Craigie Bushland?

A6 The City will produce a management Plan for the Craigie Bushland animal sanctuary, which will provide recommendations on native plant and animal management and introductions, fire management, public access and many other issues relating to the management of a conservation sanctuary. This Plan will go to Council for final approval.

Q7 What is the expected completion date for the animal sanctuary?

A7 Erecting the fence is the first stage of the project and it is due to be finished by the end of this year. A Management Plan for the animal sanctuary needs to be approved by Council before any further work can commence on eradicating the feral animals and introducing native species to Craigie Bushland.

Q8 What happens in the case of a fire at the new Craigie Bushland animal sanctuary?

A8 The feral-proof fence has access gates to allow for emergency services vehicles and there are also fire breaks both internally and externally of the sanctuary. The animal sanctuary will also be subject to a fire management plan, which will be brought to Council as part of the overall Management Plan.