Flinders Island Safe Haven Project Update – May 2025

We’re proud to share that the first and largest rodent aerial control program in South Australia has been successfully completed. Over two weeks, a dedicated operations team of more than 20 people worked tirelessly to deliver this logistically complex task safely and effectively.

Rodent Baiting Operations Explained

The rodent eradication operation on Flinders Island involved the aerial distribution of specially formulated bait pellets containing a second-generation anticoagulant, designed to eliminate invasive rodent populations with minimal impact on non-target species.

To ensure even and effective coverage, the bait was dispersed using GPS-guided bait buckets suspended from helicopters flown by highly experienced pilots. The team conducted two rounds of bait drops, timed around weather conditions to maximise uptake by rodents.

Before the baiting began, the island was carefully prepared—including the removal of remaining stock, securing water sources, and strict biosecurity measures to prevent any reintroduction of pests. Bait was stored and transported under strict controls, with over 180 pallets ferried to the island via more than 40 barge trips.

The operation was designed with safety, precision, and environmental care at its core – drawing on successful methodologies from similar island projects across Australia and New Zealand.

Next Steps – Tackling Feral Cats

With rodent baiting now complete, our focus has shifted to the next phase: feral cat eradication. This work is already underway, with traps being carefully laid across the island and aerial baiting completed.

Removing feral predators is critical to giving native species – from shorebirds to small mammals – a fighting chance to thrive.

Hear more from our Cat Operations Manager Simon Pahor here.

A Community Effort

This project is creating a lasting legacy for Flinders Island, our community, and future generations. Alongside environmental benefits, the project has supported local jobs, businesses, accommodation providers, and suppliers across the Eyre Peninsula region.

We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far and deeply thankful to everyone who has been part of the journey – whether behind the scenes, on the tools, or cheering us on from afar.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey to establish Flinders Island as a safe haven for endangered mammals!