Protect Fernvale's Last Remaining Habitat!

We call on Somerset Regional Council to refuse the proposed development application DA27150 - 114 Brouff Road, Fernvale, on account of the affect it has on our native biodiversity.

This development would result in the destruction of critical habitat used by koalas and other threatened native wildlife, including squirrel gliders, phascogales and black cockatoos.

The loss of this vegetation would further fragment one of the last remaining connected habitat areas in Fernvale and contribute to the ongoing decline of biodiversity within the Somerset region.

Developers often propose new plantings and wildlife corridors as mitigation measures. However, saplings do not replace mature habitat, and corridors do not replace habitat.

Native wildlife depends on substantial areas of established bushland for food, shelter, breeding and movement. Once mature habitat is destroyed, it cannot be recreated within meaningful ecological timeframes.

Every hectare of habitat lost makes it harder for wildlife to survive, particularly koalas.

Young koalas rely on safe dispersal through connected habitat to establish new territories and maintain healthy populations. When habitat is fragmented, they are forced into roads, backyards and other dangerous environments, leading to increased mortality, stress and disease. Continued clearing places already vulnerable populations on a path to local extinction.

As it stands, local wildlife carers have observed a significant increase in disease within the local koala population following recent habitat clearing in the area.

We respectfully request that Council prioritise environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable planning outcomes by rejecting these applications and protecting this irreplaceable habitat for future generations to enjoy.

Once it's gone, it's gone for good.