Hi all

Just an update to let you know the petition is ongoing.

We are seeking letters of concern on this issue from the Local, NSW State and Federal representatives for Eden Monaro to give more push to our request to make the stretch of the Monaro Highway between Canberra and Cooma a test case for doing wildlife protection properly. 

If you have a wildlife protection organisation or you would personally like to add your letter to our request for action on this issue please forward them to me at streatfeildted@gmail.com with a copy to Steve Whan MP's office at monaro@parliament.nsw.gov.au

We are also seeking meetings with the cross border commissioner and the ACT Government in regard to the stretch of the highway that is with the ACT border.

Transport NSW advised they will be trialling artificial intelligent signage between Michelago and Bredbo later this year.  The sign will identify species and light up to alert drivers that there is wildlife in the vicinity.   While this is a step in  the right direction it does not prevent animals from rushing into the roadway and like the existing wildlife signage it may become less effective over time or may go off to often confusing drivers and as we know drivers do not want to slow down on a highway.

It is much safer in my opinion to find ways to keep the animals off the road as far as possible while still allowing them to cross at their wildlife corridor points.

Virtual fencing has become unpopular after an unsuccessful trial on Phillip Island but the technology has been successful elsewhere and needs further testing using species specific sounds and light displays to scare off wildlife from oncoming traffic. Predator silhouettes and sounds have not yet been trialled and may be more successful. 

Hard fencing at wildlife corridors that already exist at various points on the highway corresponding with bridge and creek and river underpasses could be installed to prevent the frustration of seeing dead wombats and other wildlife at the edges of overpasses which is often the case.  

I will let you know further after meeting with more politicians and trying to gain their support.

The petition is at 3206 supporters.  Thanks to everyone that has signed and put their money towards extending the reach of the petition.

Please repost the petition if you have the opportunity.  

Fond regards to all