By MELISSA MEEHAN
A FORMER park ranger has supported calls for a cat ban for properties near the Dandenong Ranges National Park.
John Lloyd retired from his position as Ranger in Charge in November 1997 and said he strongly believed domestic and feral cats were causing a problem in the park.
The Kallista resident, who is a member of the local Lyrebird Study Group, said he had seen the number of birds reduce over the past few years.
“I really have to say I agree with Roger’s comments in last week’s paper,” Mr Lloyd said.
“The idea of an exclusion zone is a great idea, plus the idea of people not being able to replace their current cats once they pass on.
“The old Sherbrook Shire was very good and very strong on protecting the park – they even had Japan asking questions about how they could solve similar problems.”
Mr Lloyd said that he believed not enough was being done to protect local wildlife.
“A Kallista resident actually gave me a call last month, that he saw a litter of kittens right in the middle of the park at 8.30pm at night,” he said.
“As soon as he told me, I reported it to Parks Victoria – it’s a concern that they are now breeding there.”
Yarra Ranges Council is currently consulting with the community about its cat curfew and off lead local laws.
Those who want to have their say are urged to go to www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Public_Notices_Consultation/Have_Your_Say_-_Cats_Dogs.
