community - 2026-08-28

Manly's endangered Little Penguins to receive H5 bird flu vaccination

Source: www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Manly's endangered Little Penguin population will be vaccinated against H5 bird flu under a NSW Government program intended to protect one of Australia's most vulnerable seabird colonies. The decision adds a direct layer of protection for the colony as authorities prepare for the possibility of the disease affecting wildlife on the Northern Beaches.

Manly's endangered Little Penguin population will be vaccinated against H5 bird flu under a NSW Government program intended to protect one of Australia's most vulnerable seabird colonies. The decision adds a direct layer of protection for the colony as authorities prepare for the possibility of the disease affecting wildlife on the Northern Beaches. Northern Beaches Council had asked for stronger safeguards for the penguin population and welcomed the vaccination announcement. Deputy Mayor Candy Bingham said the birds were an irreplaceable part of local biodiversity and that overseas outbreaks had caused devastating damage to wildlife populations. The timing, delivery process and extent of the vaccination program were not specified. Council also cautioned that vaccination would not remove the risk entirely, with continued monitoring and preparation required as the threat evolves. Council has been preparing for H5 bird flu for several months alongside the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the lead agency for the response. That work is designed to support a coordinated response if cases are detected locally. Preparations include a cross-Council Incident...