SNAKE sightings at Werribee South’s foreshore have forced Wyndham Council to move its Australia Day celebrations.
The council traditionally holds a sausage sizzle and firework event at the beach on January 26 but has moved this year’s festivities to the Victoria University Athletics Track in Hoppers Lane, Werribee.
Mayor Heather Marcus said the decision was made in the interests of public safety.
“This again serves as a timely reminder to residents to be on the lookout for snakes, particularly during the warmer months.
“Although properties near water and more vegetated areas such as creeks, wetlands and native bushlands are more prone to snakes, they can make their way into well developed areas.”
Werribee catcher Adam Sapinao said most snakes caught recently around Wyndham were tiger snakes, though he had captured eastern brown snakes.
He said it was not unusual to find the reptiles near waterways and swamps.
Department of Sustainability and Environment senior scientist Nick Clemann said while snakes were more common around urban fringe or rural areas, it was important to be vigilant when walking near waterways and parks.
The council’s Australia Day celebrations start at 6pm and will include live music and children’s entertainment, fireworks and a sausage sizzle.
A celebration will also be held at Tarneit Community Learning Centre, 150 Sunset Views Boulevard, Tarneit from 11am-3pm.
SNAKE SAFETY
■ Keep a safe distance and don’t touch it
■ If the snake is still visible, phone council on 9742 0777 for free removal
■ If you can’t see the snake, call a professional snake catcher
■ If you are bitten call triple-0
