Tuesday, 28 July 2026

 Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (13:02): (2427) My question is for the Minister for Planning. Last week alongside the Animal Justice Party’s candidate for Benambra Mike Fuery I visited the Leneva Valley, which is currently slated for urban development. Centred on Middle Creek and bordered by Baranduda Regional Park, Bears Hill reserve and Castle Creek reserve, the valley provides ideal habitat for eastern grey kangaroos. Separate mobs inhabit each side of the valley, with Middle Creek connecting this important wildlife corridor. Baranduda Boulevard runs through the centre of the valley and already poses a significant threat to wildlife. In fact a local rescuer from Kangaloola Wildlife Shelter has responded to 350 kangaroo road strikes along just a 7-kilometre stretch of road over the past seven years. As development progresses, additional threats such as fencing, companion animal attacks and increased human interaction will place even greater pressure on these populations. Will the minister commit to putting effective wildlife protection measures in place before further development proceeds in Wodonga?