Lara man fined for disturbing Ramsar site

The Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police launched an investigation last month after Birdlife Australia reported that research equipment used to monitor fairy tern breeding had been stolen.

The stolen equipment, including a monitoring camera and decoy 3D printed fairy terns was taken from an artificial habitat pontoon. Habitat for the fairy tern was also disturbed during the incident.

Images of the incident captured on the research camera were used to assist officers with their investigation.

The Lara man has received an infringement for disturbing wildlife habitat under the Wildlife Act 1975.

Avalon Coastal Reserve is part of the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site, and is used by fairy terns for foraging and roosting.

All research equipment was successfully returned to Birdlife Australia.

Acting Chief Conservation Regulator Wayne Robins said:

'Victorian native wildlife and their habitat are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is an offence to disturb wildlife or to damage, disturb or destroy wildlife habitat.'

'It is especially concerning to see the habitat of a critically endangered species being disturbed.'

'If you are aware of anyone disturbing wildlife or wildlife habitat, you can report it by calling Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.'

A BirdLife Australia spokesperson said:

'This research is so important for the endangered fairy tern, and it’s vital that we are able to continue this work without disturbance.'