Find out more
Contact Barwon Coast at the following
- About Us
- Who We Are
- Our Work
- About the Coast
- Environment Management
- Access & Use
- Permissions
- Explore
- Learn & Do
- Get Involved
- Stay
Latest News
Close X14 September 2026
Looking for summer work? Join our team by the coast
Barwon Coast is recruiting at least 15 Casual Cleaning Officers to join our caravan park and campground team for the busy 2026-27 peak season.
9 September 2026
Barwon Heads Nature Festival returns this September
The Barwon Heads Nature Festival is back from Monday 21 to Friday 25 September
27 August 2026
New Hooded Plover nest at Thirteenth Beach
A new Hooded Plvoer nest has been discovered on 13th Beach
19 August 2026
Have your say on draft playground designs for Barwon Heads Caravan Park
Barwon Coast is inviting the community to help shape the designs of two playgrounds at Barwon Heads Caravan Park,
6 August 2026
Final Bancoora Coastal Adaptation Plan now available
The final Bancoora Coastal Adaptation Plan (CAP) is now available.
Fox control program – use of PAPP baits
Published on 8 August 2025
An article in today’s Geelong Advertiser highlights recent cases of domestic dogs being poisoned by fox baits in the region, including at the land managed by Barwon Coast.
Barwon Coast is one of several land managers that use baits to protect threatened and endangered species, and we want to provide clarity about our program and the safeguards in place.
Barwon Coast is committed to protecting the biodiversity of our coastal reserves, including threatened species such as the endangered Hooded Plover. Introduced predators like foxes are one of the greatest threats to ground-nesting birds, reptiles and small mammals. We use a combination of management tools to reduce their impact — including the carefully controlled use of PAPP (para-aminopropiophenone) baits.
PAPP is a widely used, fast-acting and more humane alternative to traditional poisons such as 1080, with the added benefit of an available antidote (methylene blue). It is tightly regulated, and Barwon Coast applies it under strict operational protocols with trained and licensed staff.
Baits are never placed on public trails or paths. They are located in vegetated and dune areas away from regular public access. Signage is installed around all baited areas in line with legal requirements. To minimise risks to non-target species and protect fragile dune systems, we ask visitors to
- stay on designated tracks
- keep dogs on a lead at all times, in line with dog-walking regulations
We are currently investigating one suspected fatal domestic animal poisoning in relation to this program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of poison is being used in the fox baiting program?
The bait contains para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP), a fast-acting toxin specifically designed to target foxes. It can be fatal to dogs if ingested.Why is Barwon Coast using fox bait?
Fox baiting is part of Barwon Coast’s conservation strategy to protect threatened species such as the Hooded Plover, as well as native reptiles and small mammals vulnerable to fox predation.Where are baits laid?
Baits are only placed in targeted dune areas, away from designated walking tracks and gathering areas. These locations are clearly signposted in accordance with operational safety protocols. They are not placed on public beaches, paths, or gathering spaces. If baits are being found on trails or closer than the regulations state, they have been moved.How do I know if baiting is happening in an area I visit?
Areas under active baiting are marked with dated signage. We strongly advise all visitors to obey signs and keep to designated tracks.What symptoms should I look for if I suspect my dog has eaten fox bait?
Symptoms can appear within 30 minutes and may include- Wobbliness or weakness
- Hypersalivation
- Vomiting (often yellow-orange)
- Breathing difficulties
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
Seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect bait ingestion.
Is there an antidote for PAPP poisoning?
Yes – methylene blue is an antidote for PAPP, but it must be administered as soon as possible for the best chance of recovery. Contact a veterinary emergency service immediately.Has there been a recent increase in pet poisonings?
Yes, local vets have reported a surge in cases, including one confirmed fatality and multiple emergency treatments. We have only had one case of non-fatal poisoning reported to us, which we are investigating.What is Barwon Coast doing in response to these incidents?
We are thoroughly investigating the reported domestic animal poisonings, as well as investigating the information reported in the Geelong Advertiser. We will continue to ensure our practices meet strict environmental and safety protocols.How can I keep my dog safe during baiting periods?
- Keep dogs on leads at all times
- Stay on designated walking paths
- Do not allow your dog to enter dune areas
- Observe all signage
- Be vigilant if your dog attempts to eat something from the ground
Who can I contact for more information?
For suspected poisonings, contact your local vet or emergency animal hospital immediately. Following this, if the vet confirms your dog has ingested fox bait, please advise the land manager of the area your dog ingested the poison so they can investigate.Related Articles
Looking for summer work? Join our team by the coast
Barwon Coast is recruiting at least 15 Casual Cleaning Officers to join our caravan park and campground team for the busy 2026-27 peak season.
Barwon Heads Nature Festival returns this September
The Barwon Heads Nature Festival is back from Monday 21 to Friday 25 September
New Hooded Plover nest at Thirteenth Beach
A new Hooded Plvoer nest has been discovered on 13th Beach
Have your say on draft playground designs for Barwon Heads Caravan Park
Barwon Coast is inviting the community to help shape the designs of two playgrounds at Barwon Heads Caravan Park,
🌿 The Barwon Heads Nature Festival is almost here!
From 21–25 September, Friends of the Bluff are bringing together an amazing program of events celebrating the wonderful natural environment of Barwon Heads. There’s lots to explore, including some fantastic events happening across our coastal foreshore reserves:
🥾 Monday 21 September – Explore Barwon Bluff, plus two Canoe the Mangroves sessions
🌱 Tuesday 22 September – Walk on Country @ Barwon Bluff with @Wadawurrung
🌊 Wednesday 23 September – Orchids in the Park, then Land, Sea, Sky slide night
🔬 Thursday 24 September – Tide & Seek: a family ‘marine science’ day
🧤 Friday 25 September – Barwon Heads Great Spring Clean Up, followed by the Turning the Tide short film festival that evening.
There’s plenty more happening throughout the festival too!
Explore the full program and find out how to get involved: https://www.barwonbluff.com.au/nature-festival/
Congratulations to Friends of the Bluff and everyone involved in putting together another fantastic celebration of our coast. 💚Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18003910007791685
🐌 Go searching for sea slugs at Barwon Bluff!🌊
Did you know Victoria is home to more than 400 species of colourful sea slugs?
Join Parks Victoria (@parksvic ) for a Sea Slug Census in the intertidal rockpools of the Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary and see what you can discover.
📅 Thursday 17 September
⏰ 9.30–11.30am
📍 Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary
Learn more about these fascinating marine creatures while helping contribute valuable observations to the Victorian Marine Parks Association database and iNaturalist.
Registrations are essential.
Find out more and register via www.parkconnect.vic.gov.au/volunteer-activities (search for `sea slug`)Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18062185166609315
A cuppa, a chat and an important question – R U OK? 💛
Today our team came together for an R U OK?Day morning tea and heard from our Employee Assistance Program provider about the confidential health and wellbeing support available to our staff and their families.
It was a great reminder to make time for genuine conversations – today and every day.
Ask R U OK? Any day. 💛
#RUOKDay #RUOK #WorkplaceWellbeingOpen post by barwoncoast with ID 18120793300911347
🥚 Hoodie nest update!
We’re pleased to share that there are currently two active Hooded Plover nests – at Blue Rocks and near Signpost at 13th Beach – each with three eggs. 🤞
Hoodies nest directly on the sand, and their tiny, camouflaged eggs can be almost impossible to spot. They’re also easily disturbed, so please give them plenty of space.
🩵 Keep close to the waterline
🩵 Keep dogs on lead near nesting areas
🩵 Stay outside fenced or roped-off areas
Six little eggs – fingers crossed we`ll see some little chicks! 🐣
#HoodedPlovers #BarwonCoastHoodieWatchOpen post by barwoncoast with ID 18088144943208650
💙 Happy Father’s Day!
Wishing a very happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful fathers and father figures in our community!
If you’re looking for something fun to do with Dad today and haven’t, ahem, made a solid plan yet… why not swing by the Barwon Coast Discovery Centre in Barwon Heads? 🐚
Housed in the historic Lobster Pot, there’s plenty to explore – from local marine life and wildlife to geology, shipwrecks and local history.
🦀 Open today, 1–4pm
📍 Jetty Road, Barwon Heads
🌊 Free entry – all ages welcome
Perfect for a little Father’s Day wander by the coast.
More information: https://barwoncoast.com.au/about-the-coast/barwon-coast-discovery-centre/Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18117019076289796
Species spotlight: Sooty Oystercatchers 🖤❤️
Have you spotted a Sooty Oystercatcher along our coast?
With their striking all-black plumage, long red bill and bright red eyes, these distinctive shorebirds are amazing to spot along our coast – although their dark colour can make them tricky to see against the basalt of our coastal reefs.
📸 A big thank you to Rod Morrison for these fantastic photos!
Got a great photo of local wildlife? We’d love to see it – share it with us in the comments or send it our way.
And if you’d like to learn more about the birds you might spot around Barwon Bluff, our friends at Friends of the Bluff Barwon Heads have put together some great information.
👉 Check out their Sky – Birds page: https://www.barwonbluff.com.au/sky-birds/
A quick reminder about bird flu: If you come across sick or dead birds along the coast, please don’t touch or handle them. Keep your distance, keep dogs away and report sightings to the relevant authorities. Reports of sick and dead birds are important in helping authorities monitor for avian influenza. More info: agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdfluOpen post by barwoncoast with ID 18405996016095836
🌊 The Barwon Coast Discovery Centre is back from this Sunday! 🐚
After a winter break, the doors of will be open this Sunday, and there’s plenty to discover inside.
Drop in and explore the stories of our coast – from local marine life, plants and wildlife to geology, shipwrecks and local history. You can also have a chat with one of the wonderful Friends of The Lobster Pot volunteers, who always have plenty of knowledge to share.
🦀 Open Sundays, 1–4pm
📍 Jetty Road, Barwon Heads
🌊 Free entry – all ages welcome
Come in, have a look around and discover something new about the coast .
More information: https://barwoncoast.com.au/about-the-coast/barwon-coast-discovery-centre/
#BarwonCoast #BarwonHeads #DiscoveryCentreOpen post by barwoncoast with ID 18119837329925682
🌸 Hello, spring! 🐝
As we welcome a new season, we’re feeling pretty lucky to experience this special stretch of coast in all its seasons.
There’s a lot to love about a coastal winter – wild seas, moody skies, quiet beaches and those crisp, clear days. But we’re also happy to see the first signs of spring appearing across the coastal foreshore.
Coastal plants are starting to flower, warmer days are sneaking in (along with some pretty hectic rain!) and Hooded Plover breeding season is underway once again. Please keep your fingers crossed for a successful season for these vulnerable little birds. 🤞🐦
Here’s to spring on the coast – new life, changing landscapes and plenty more wild weather along the way. 🌿🌊Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18223003876335922
We have Hooded Plover nest lift-off! 🥚
We have discovered this little nest on 13th Beach (Black Rock end) and are hoping to see a little family here in around four weeks` time. Our keen-eyed staff have also noticed scrapes (Hoodies usually lay their eggs in shallow scrapes in the sand) at Stingray Bay, Breamlea, and near @13thbeachslsc - exciting!
When enjoying the coast, beachgoers are asked to help protect this nest by:
🩵 Walking close to the waterline
🩵 Keeping well clear of fenced or roped-off areas
🩵 Keeping dogs on-lead and away from sensitive dune areas
🩵 Giving the birds plenty of space so they do not abandon their eggs
Every small action helps give Hooded Plovers the best chance to hatch and thrive. Thank you for taking care on our beaches.Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18079966946333677
🏡 The final two cabins are arriving!
The last two cabins for our new cabin precinct at Barwon Heads Caravan Park are due to arrive late tonight, Tuesday 25 August.
The cabins will be parked along Jetty Road overnight before being moved into position tomorrow morning.
To allow this to happen safely, the main caravan park entrance will temporarily close for a couple of hours, with guest vehicle access redirected via the temporary Bluff Road entrance.
There may also be temporary parking restrictions and delays along Jetty Road while the cabins are manoeuvred into position.
Thanks for your patience while we get the final two cabins into place!Open post by barwoncoast with ID 18153739003506532
This is Wadawurrung Country. We acknowledge the Wadawurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the land, waters, seas and skies of Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, 13th Beach, Black Rock and Breamlea. We honour and say Nyatne to Elders past, present and future whose ancestors, for thousands of years, have cared for this part of Dja (Country). We are committed as an organisation to meaningfully work together with Traditional Owners to make Wadawurrung Culture and Country strong.
© 2026 Barwon Coast. Website by Residency Studios.
- Get Involved
- Access & Use
- Our Work
- Who We Are
