Over 110 landholders from the Geographe region attended an information session recently to learn more about GeoCatch’s Rabbit Control Pilot Program.
Out of control rabbit populations can have a devastating impact on natural bush and agricultural land and the program will give landholders in the Geographe Catchment a new tool to reduce rabbit numbers on their properties.
The 2025 Calicivirus RHDV1-K5 Release Pilot Program, a joint effort by GeoCatch and the Leschenault Biosecurity Group, assists participating private landholders with a target release of the virus, aimed to reduce wild rabbit popuations. It is a scientifically-backed, cost-effective method of wild rabbit control which which has been used by Leschenault Biosecurity Group in their area, with much success over the past few years.
Although Calicivirus RHDV1-K5 is an effective rabbit bio-control tool, it is important that landholders consider integrating multiple control methods to optimise rabbit management. These can include strategic fencing, tree protection and reducing rubble and wood piles that rabbits may seek shelter in.
Ludlow beef farmer Andrew Longbottom said that he came along to the information session hear more about what the Geographe Rabbit Control Program offers.
“We’re looking to tackle the growing rabbit population on our property with an integrated approach, and having access to the Calicivirus through this program, will definitely be another tool in our kit” said Andrew.
The overwhelming interest from local farmers has seen the pilot program already reach capacity.
“Leschenault Biosecurity Group have seen success with helping to control rabbit populations in their patch, and we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to extend the program to landholders in the Geographe catchment,” said Jenelle Schult, GeoCatch’s Sustainable Agriculture Coordinator.
Landholders participating in the program receive support from GeoCatch and Leschenault Biosecurity Group, following a one-off fee of $80 which covers the cost of the virus for up to four feed sites (depending on property size) as well as expert support throughout the process. The virus is species-specific, affecting only rabbits, and is safe for humans, livestock, pets, and native wildlife. A vaccine that protects domestic rabbits against this strain of the Calicivirus is recommended and available from local vets.
To be notified of any future feral animal control programs in the Geographe Catchment please complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GeoCatchFutureProgramsEOI.
This initiative is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.
