Moorabool Shire Council: Rod Ward moves free snake removal motion to protect newcomers to Bacchus Marsh region

New Aussies and city slickers are risking their lives handling some of the world’s deadliest snakes, prompting pleas from a Victorian councillor to implement a free removal service.

Snake catchers should be a service provided by council, people are arguing. Picture: Dean Thompson

New Aussies and city slickers have risked their lives handling some of the world’s deadliest snakes, prompting a Victorian council to explore a free removal service.

Residents in the Moorabool Shire, west of Melbourne, have resorted to capturing snakes themselves because their council does not provide a free service, unlike many of its neighbouring municipalities, as cost of living pressures mean some are unable to fork out for call-outs.

Snake catcher Jarrod Bingham was shocked and concerned after he was called out to remove an almost 5ft tiger snake this week before he discovered the resident — who recently moved to Australia — had “recklessly” grabbed the reptile and chucked it in a bag.

Snake catcher Jarrod Bingham said he was shocked when a family had “recklessly” moved an almost 5ft snake (not pictured) themselves.

“People should assume all snakes are dangerous because most of them in these parts are extremely venomous, so we need to respect them and leave them alone,” Mr Bingham said.

“I am disappointed the state government does not allow catchers to record and publish our jobs on social media, I used to post videos and gained a large following, it was not just entertainment but educational and many immigrants and newcomers to the region have no idea of the risk.

“Snake catchers provide a service and I support any move to help make it more affordable for residents doing it tough.”

It follows the death of two dogs in Melbourne’s west after a deadly snake attack in their backyard.

Red belly black snake

According to councillor Rod Ward, Moorabool is the only shire in Australia that hosts all members of a venomous party: Red-bellied black snakes, eastern browns, eastern tigers and copperheads.

Mr Ward said Moorabool was among the fastest growing regions in Victoria and was home to an increasingly diverse community, with many new residents unaware how venomous their frequent guests are.

“There are new housing estates that encroach areas which were traditionally a safe habitat for snakes, this has led to increased sightings and will likely lead to a growing risk of snake bites for residents,” Mr Ward said.

Moorabool councillor Rod Ward said the region was among the most dangerous for its local snakes.

“The majority of snakebite related injuries happen when people choose to attempt to relocate the snake themselves as a cost-saving measure or due to a lack of education.

“Feedback from residents in neighbouring councils is they believe the service provides comfort and reassurance that help is there and that Council not only cares about their safety but also wildlife conservation.”

Nearby councils including Melton, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Hume have previously provided a free service.

He said, anecdotally, there had been an increase in snake sightings on community social media pages which prompted his move to support and protect residents.

Mr Ward tabled a successful motion on Wednesday for the council to prepare a report on what a trial removal service would entail next summer.

Moorabool Shire and the Environment Department were contacted for comment.