We are collaborating with Griffith University to improve the effectiveness of our flying fox education and communication.

Project overview

In 2022, we engaged independent experts to do research into local flying fox knowledge. You can learn more about that project here.

The study concluded that Council’s efforts to educate the community on flying-foxes were effective, however more could be done to reach our community.

This survey is a continuation of that research into how we can improve future flying fox communication to our Sunshine Coast community.

Survey closed

The community was asked to complete a survey which closed on September 10, 2023.

Next steps

The survey data will be analysed and used to inform a co-design workshop.

Following this Griffith University will develop a plan to help improve the effectiveness of Council’s flying fox education.

Background

Why is this research being conducted?

In 2022, we engaged independent experts to do research into local flying fox knowledge. You can learn more about that project here.

The study concluded that Council’s efforts to educate the community on flying-foxes were effective, however more could be done to reach our community.

This survey is a continuation of that research into how we can improve future flying fox communication to our Sunshine Coast community.

We are collaborating with social marketing experts, Griffith University, in this research.

Flying foxes are important members of many ecosystems and play a key role in maintaining biodiversity by helping to pollinate and disperse the seeds of many plant species.

Flying foxes are facing various threats to their survival, including habitat loss, diseases, and human disturbance.

Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and restoration, and reducing human disturbance, are important for preserving flying fox populations and ensuring their continued survival.

There are many things that individuals can do to minimise the impact of flying-foxes within their residential settings as well as reduce the risk of disease transmission. We are conducting surveys so we can identify and address the barriers to these behaviours to improve the effectiveness of our communication.

The expected benefits of the research

Promote conservation of flying foxes on the Sunshine Coast, including increasing awareness and knowledge, and taking conservation actions such as minimising disturbance.