Melton’s free snake catching program will be extended following a successful five-month trial.
Of the 24 call-outs since February 16, snakes were removed on six occasions, lizards found five times and a “very large” diamond python spotted at a Melton South address in June.
Council officers told last week’s council meeting the cost of the trial was $3500 and recommended extending the trial for another 12 months.
“As this program was carried out during late summer and autumn, the trial does not truly reflect the number of requests that may be made to council,” a report stated.
Officers expect the 12-month trial to cost $20,000, based on about 100 requests at $200 a job. Requests will only be responded to when a resident states the snake is visible and agrees to supervise the location until the catcher arrives.
“Like any program, the resident should have some responsibility to take some precautions to reduce the potential of future calls from these locations,” the report stated.
“Council should not continue to provide a service if the property is a haven for snakes.”
Council officers also recommended not providing a free snake-catcher service to owners of industrial properties or in rural areas.
Councillors Nola Dunn, Renata Cugliari, Kathy Majdlik, Sophie Ramsey, Lara Carli and Bob Turner accepted the recommendations. Cr Myles Bentley was absent.
More information: 9747 7200
