A proposed kangaroo cull at Cowra's Peace Precinct will not go ahead, with Cowra Council to consult the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) for advice on the matter.
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Council discussed the plan behind closed doors at its meeting on December 16 last year, with the decision to note a report prepared by General Manager Paul Devery and "that no further action be taken" released at January's meeting on Wednesday night.
Cowra Mayor, Councillor Bill West said councillors believed culling 30 kangaroos of the 300 that are located in the Peace Precinct would not make a difference on population rates in the long term.
"There was a strong opinion in the council that it is a problem," Cr West said.
"The general consensus was that perhaps the number that we had a permit to shoot or to destroy wasn't enough to make a big impact short term and certainly do nothing long term."
"[We are] not taking any further action in terms of a cull, I think we still plan to make people aware of, given particularly in a drought, there could be considerable kangaroo numbers around yards, gardens and on the roads."
Cr West said council has consulted with different organisations about alternative options to address kangaroo numbers.
"I think the best course of action for us will be to talk to National Parks and Wildlife," he said.
While there is no concrete timeframe for dicussions with NPWS, Cr West said council hopes to work with the community in addressing the issue and stressed residents should take caution around the animals, especially with pets and children.
"One of the concerns we would also have is kangaroos being scared by people or people being scared or spooked by kangaroos in their front yard or back yard," he said.
"There is always going to be some concern when wild animals and humans interact in the same space."
Cr West said council will be putting up signs in highly populated areas.
"Things like signs may assist the issue," he said.
"We realise there are potential issues out there so we are keen to talk to the community and work with the community."
