Riddells Creek’s feathered locals have motorists in a flap

For almost 25 years a gaggle of geese has called Riddells Creek its home, causing grief for some people and wonderment for others, but it’s their road crossing habits that have local authorities in a jam.

A gaggle of geese is ruffling feathers north of Melbourne.

For almost 25 years the flock has made the town of Riddells Creek its home, living in local parks.

But it’s their road crossing habits that have local authorities in a jam.

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The gaggle, which at times can include up to 30 geese, is causing traffic headaches and hazards for motorists in the small town.

The geese have been at Riddells Creek for about 25 years. Picture: Nicole Cleary

Macedon Ranges Council, VicRoads and local police launched a public appeal late last year, asking residents to help decide what to do with the geese.

Not all locals were happy to hear their cherished geese could get the boot.

“They are gorgeous, just lovely,” said resident Vicki Compton, who has lived in Riddells Creek for more than 40 years.

She says she loves watching the family of geese wander through the town.

“They’re very good when they cross the road; you can see the gander walk out first with his imaginary stop sign and make sure the rest of the flock get across safely,” she said.

“It’s so charming.”

Most of the villagers love the birds, unless they hold up peak-hour traffic. Picture: Nicole Cleary

Ms Compton said people needed to simply be patient with the “feathered members of the community”.

Public consultation
has how closed, and the town will be informed of recommendations by the
end of February.

The council asked people driving in the town to be aware of the geese and to slow down.