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'Batemans Bay hates nature' is one of many slogans written on the Water Garden boardwalk protesting planned dispersal of flying foxes.
The slogans range from accusations of “environmental terrorism” to warnings that the planned dispersal of the colony was “doomed to failure”.
“I hope they go to your house” and “I’d be very afraid if I were you” are others.
The graffiti has appeared since Eurobodalla Shire Council began clearing vegetation from the suburban garden in the centre of Batemans Bay.
The council endorsed an imminent dispersal plan on Tuesday, after a pro-dispersal action group lodged survey of more than 200 people living near the water garden.
“So, when do we start pouring cement”, was another slogan written on metal pier caps on the garden boardwalk.
Others referenced other water garden residents: “I see the ibis colony is the first casualty - good one numbskulls.”
“Environmental terrorism at its peak - thank your council”; “Dispersal - proven to fail”; “Take a good look - it may be the last time you will be able to see the environment at work”; “ESC supporting a project doomed to failure ... with your money”; and “There goes the neighbour hood, there go the forests,” were others.
Flying foxes were first reported in the water garden in 2012, but their numbers grew early in 2016 from an estimated 20,000 to 120,000 – prompting an outcry from many residents and contributing to two fiery public meetings.