Bats and bandits harming Cairns as a destination
CRIME and flying foxes in the heart of the Cairns CBD have been identified as some of the key issues that need to be tackled to make the city a more attractive tourism destination.
Along with infrastructure improvements and planning for future growth, providing a safe environment for all visitors has been flagged as a must.
Senior Sergeant Shawn Pipia said police had been working with business owners on the best way to approach and tackle crime issues in the CBD.
“Typically (crime) is ramping up but statistics-wise it hasn’t. It’s been business as normal for us,” he said.
“But I know in terms of operations, police are going to ramp things up during the week and try and get a hold of things.
“The crime’s not so much out of control, it’s just a few people that have brought their disturbances into the city.”
Sen Sgt Pipia said although Cairns City Safe cameras were an asset to police, a combined community effort would help address any concerns around crime even further.
“We’d really love to get some assistance from the other agencies that are involved, even indigenous agencies and corporations, to help deal with it,” he said.
“We’re trying to lead the charge and get them motivated and get them out on the street themselves, and come and see what it’s actually like.”
The second key issue is the Lake St spectacled flying fox colony, which concerns Centrepoint Apartments manager Tony Nastasi.
He said Chinese tourists have left a series of negative reviews describing the bats as “very scary” and “stinky”.
“And they crash-landed in the pool the other day with all the kids in it,” he said.
“The issue is if you get one that is actually sick that is when it can be fatal ... I just don’t think they should be in the city.”
Mr Nastasi said he believed there was a will from Cairns Regional Council to remove the bats but the job has been made more difficult by the upgrading of the species’ conservation status.
CBD councillor Richie Bates said management of the colony has polarised the community.
“I think the plan to move them on is a wise one but I temper that by saying it is not without risk (to the bats),” he said.