The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has confirmed H5 bird flu has arrived in Lakes Entrance with a Greater Crested Tern testing positive to the virus.
The sick tern was discovered in a gutter on the Esplanade last week by a member of the public and reported immediately to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
Local MP Darren Chester stated that Gippslanders need to be prepared for mass deaths of native birdlife following the announcement of the death of the bird in East Gippsland.
“This is obviously disturbing news for the Gippsland Lakes, which has large populations of a diverse range of birdlife,” Mr Chester said.
“We need to hope for the best but prepare for the worst with this bird flu, which has been devastating in other parts of the world.”
Environment Department chief of biodiversity officer James Todd has been reported as stating that the biggest concerns are now with respect to the recent cases at Lakes Entrance, the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island as they represent areas where large numbers of species gather in Spring for feeding and breeding.
Mr Chester has urged backyard chicken owners to follow the biosecurity advice and minimise contact between wild birds and their poultry.
“The detection of H5 bird flu in Gippsland and across Australia is a serious biosecurity challenge that demands a coordinated, transparent and well-timed response,” he said.
“It’s important to note that Australians can continue to have confidence in our locally-grown chicken and egg products as there have been no detections in poultry.”
It is important that if you come across a sick or dead bird, do not touch them.
Immediately keep people and pets away, note the location and details, and report the incident to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
