Three corellas have died in a distressing wildlife incident in the Geelong region, after becoming fatally entangled in football goal nets at a Bannockburn sporting ground.
A Tragic Discovery at Bannockburn
The incident occurred at the Bannockburn Football Netball Club grounds on Hendy Main Road. A member of the public discovered the three birds, a species of native white cockatoo, hopelessly ensnared in the nets on Tuesday, April 16. Despite the best efforts of local wildlife rescuers, the corellas could not be saved.
Wildlife rescuer Bev Brown, who attended the scene, confirmed the birds had died from their injuries. She described the situation as a preventable tragedy that highlights an ongoing danger to native fauna. The nets, which are often left up for casual training or practice, can become deadly traps for birds and other animals.
A Preventable Danger to Native Wildlife
This is not an isolated incident. Wildlife carers across Australia repeatedly warn about the hazards posed by sports nets, including those for soccer, tennis, and cricket, when they are left unattended. Birds, possums, and even flying foxes can become entangled, often suffering severe injuries, stress, and death before they are found.
Bev Brown issued a strong plea to the community, particularly to sporting clubs, schools, and families with backyard nets. "The message is simple: if you're not using the net, take it down," she urged. If taking the net down after every use is impractical, she advises securely tying the netting into a tight bundle or using covers that prevent animals from accessing the loose mesh.
Community Action Can Save Lives
The deaths of these three corellas serve as a sombre reminder of the impact human infrastructure can have on local wildlife. The Geelong region is home to a variety of native bird species, and simple actions can make a significant difference in their protection.
Local authorities and environmental groups encourage residents to:
- Always take down sports nets after use.
- If nets must remain up, bundle and tie them tightly to remove gaps.
- Regularly check any nets for trapped animals, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Report any injured wildlife immediately to a licensed wildlife carer or organisation.
By raising awareness and changing habits, the community can help ensure that such a tragic event is not repeated. The loss of these three corellas in Bannockburn underscores the urgent need for greater vigilance and responsibility in how we manage our recreational equipment in shared environments.
