I am a local wildlife carer, and every night as I travel to and from work on the Sunshine Coast, I am confronted by the terrible sights of wildlife struck by vehicles. It's truly heartbreaking. I stop, pull dead and injured animals off the roads almost every trip, performing pouch checks and trying to prevent secondary strikes for scavenger animals such as owls.

We need to take immediate action to protect the precious wildlife who call this region home. As the Sunshine Coasts population grows, our wildlife struggles more and more. I was fortunate enough to grow up on the coast and have also lived in big cities. One of the things that makes this region so great is the community and our care towards our environment. I hope to help prevent us from becoming like other cities. To help us coexist in a more harmonious way with wildlife.

Installing wildlife warning signs around Little Mountain, along Steve Irwin Way at Glenview, and coming into Caloundra (particularly near Bunnings and Caloundra round about) can make a significant difference. These signs would alert drivers to the presence of wildlife, encouraging them to slow down and be more vigilant during their commutes.

The Sunshine Coast is blessed with a rich diversity of fauna, yet roadways pose a significant threat to these native animals. According to wildlife conservation groups, vehicle collisions are one of the leading causes of wildlife deaths across the region. During peak travel times, especially at dusk and dawn when many animals are most active, the risk increases.

I believe that installing these signs is a practical step that could save lives. They have been effective in other regions by significantly reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions. By working with local councils and road authorities, we can establish appropriate placement for these signs, ensuring visibility for drivers.

This is not just a matter of reducing roadkill; it’s about preserving our unique ecosystems and protecting species that are under increasing threat. Animals like kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife are part of what makes our region special. To lose them would be unthinkable.

Please join me in urging the Sunshine Coast Council and Queensland's Department of Transport and Main Roads to place wildlife warning signs along roads in our beloved region. Sign this petition to help protect our cherished wildlife and make our roads safer for everyone.