WA Biosecurity Forum

Earlier in the year, I attended the Recognised Biosecurity Group (RBG) Annual Forum in Perth to provide a national overview of coordinated rabbit management efforts and discuss emerging challenges and opportunities.

Heidi with the Recognised Biosecurity Group (RBG) members. Source: CISS.

The forum brought together biosecurity practitioners and leaders from across the state and it offered a valuable platform for sharing ideas, knowledge and networking.

A key component of the visit was time spent in the Peel–Harvey Biosecurity Group region, where I met with board and staff members, Landcare groups, and regional NRM stakeholders working in really complex peri-urban environments.

I also got to see first-hand Michael Norman’s Coastcare work along the Sorrento Beach and Marmion Foreshore, where his community groups are helping restore degraded coastal habitats by reducing rabbits, reintroducing native plant species and improving overall plant diversity. Through careful planting and rehabilitation, they have strengthened natural ecosystems, allowing original species to return and thrive while increasing the area’s resilience to erosion and environmental stress. Well worth a look!

Not all states are the same, there are different departments, policies, legislations, permits and approved chemicals for use in rabbit management. During the visit, I was able to gain a better understanding of how pest management is funded and delivered across Western Australia. Thanks to everyone who showed me your region/state and workshopping ideas to strengthen the pest management system. I look forward to working with you again soon.