David Gardiner

Journalist

UPDATED 1.43PM

After we sought comment from the state government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) about possible signage, a short time ago TMR confirmed they will be acting on the issue.

“We have investigated the section of road between Captain Cook Highway and Barrier Street, following concerns from the local community about magpie geese crossing Port Douglas Road,” a TMR spokesperson told Newsport in an exclusive statement.

“We will install signage to further increase awareness of potential wildlife crossings at this location,” the spokesperson said. 

“We encourage motorists to drive to conditions and be alert for hazards on the road, including wildlife.”

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EARLIER: There’ve been widespread pleas for drivers to slow down along Port Douglas Road, after magpie geese were killed, apparently by a vehicle near the Barrier Street roundabout.

The deaths of the birds, native to northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, have prompted an active discussion on social media about more care needed to be taken for wildlife in the area.

There were emotional pleas after two magpie geese were killed while crossing the busy road.

“I am heartbroken that two beautiful adult Magpie Geese have been killed on Port Douglas Rd,” one post said.

“It takes two years to raise an orphaned Magpie Goose gosling to adulthood. It takes three Magpie Geese to raise goslings. PLEASE PLEASE slow down, please don’t kill any more. This is too sad for words.”

Another said: “Please, please let’s all keep an eye out from geese crossing the roads ATM; Let’s all slow down a little.”

Many have called for some type of road signage in the area, south of the Barrier St roundabout, to make drivers aware of the birds.

“Signage would be helpful, I think to slow down traffic. It would be like the beware of the duck/duckling crossing signs we see around another towns and cities.” 

The Port Douglas Facebook page has urged its members to contact Douglas Shire Council and the state government to take action to prevent more magpie geese being killed.

Newsport asked Council if it had any plans for signage on Port Douglas Road, to which the Mayor, Michael Kerr responded:

“Council strongly supports installing wildlife signage on Port Douglas Road which is the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Main Roads,” Cr Kerr said.

“I have been asking the State Government to put wildlife signage to warn motorists at this location for a number of years.

“Douglas Shire Council believes our local wildlife and birds play an important role in our region’s biodiversity. We encourage all motorists to drive safely and be aware of wildlife on all roads in Douglas Shire.”