Dozens of native bats killed in senseless arson incident
By Sonia Isaacs
DULARCHA Railway Tunnel Mooloolah was closed last week while Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers investigated a deeply concerning arson incident that resulted in the tragic deaths of 52 little bent-wing bats.
It is understood that the bats may have been killed by a firework explosion that occurred on Saturday (August 24) at around 5.30pm. Following the incident firework paraphernalia was found at the site of the popular walking track tunnel.
Rangers and wildlife rescuers were alerted to the distressing situation on Sunday afternoon (August 25). Local wildlife carer, Katrina Odgers, said she had been called to the scene around 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon, and said it was one of the most shocking incidents of wildlife harm she had ever witnessed. “This was one of the most difficult rescues I’ve ever done,” she said speaking with GC&M News. “I’ve been to many horrific wildlife rescues and this was up there, however once I found out it was purposely done then it really affected my mental health. “I’d also like to reach out to the four young teenagers who helped me do the initial search, and offered to stay behind.”
Ms Odgers said she found 21 microbats dead on arrival, and rescued 27 traumatically injured bats from the tunnel which she then transported to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. A further four bats were discovered deceased following the initial discovery. A Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) spokesperson confirmed, despite the tireless efforts of rangers, wildlife rescuers, and staff from the Australian Zoo Wildlife Hospital, the injured bats could not be saved.
“This is an extremely serious incident and rangers are investigating the matter,” the DESI spokesperson said. “We are pursuing some strong leads, but we are urging anyone with information that can assist our investigation to come forward.” GC&M News understand an unofficial music event had been hosted at the tunnel, however investigations have revealed the event took place the weekend prior to the arson related incident.
GC&M News spoke with organisers involved in the event who said they were “absolutely mortified” by the arson incident and stressed they had no involvement. “We are absolutely horrified to discover that they may be a suggestion our event was involved in this terrible incident,” they said. “While we acknowledge the timing is terrible, our event was held the week previously.”
A QPS spokesperson confirmed police were investigating the incident believed to have injured and killed a number of bats in the Dularcha Rail tunnel, which was called in on Sunday, August 25. “Initial investigations indicate fireworks may have exploded inside the tunnel,” the QPS spokesperson said “Investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact police.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/ reporting or call 131 444.