General News
25 September, 2025
Mount Isa City Council introduces bounty for feral cats, dogs
Councillors took the initiative after a spate of sightings in the region this year.
Mount Isa City Council yesterday voted to introduce a feral animal bounty program after the rise of feral cats and dogs in the North West.
Under the 12-month trial, there will be a proposed bounty of $25 per feral cat tail and $50 per wild dog tail. It will apply only to feral animals from within the Mount Isa Local Government Area.
Similar bounty programs in neighbouring North West Queensland councils – including Cloncurry Shire, Etheridge Shire and Boulia Shire – have shown the schemes can be an effective part of pest-management strategies.
Speaking at Wednesday’s ordinary meeting, councillor James Coghlan said feral animals were a big problem in the Mount Isa region.
“It’s good to see that councils are starting to come together, because it’s a waste of time if just one or two councils are doing it,” he said.
“It’s a great use of this money and anything we can do to help our native wildlife survive is well needed.”
Councillor Dan Ballard said he strongly supported the implementation of the trial program.
“It is for 12 months, and there will be tweaks and changes required for its long-term success, but I think this represents a big step in the right direction,” he said.
Mount Isa's initiative is consistent with the North West Queensland Regional Biosecurity Plan, which identifies wild dogs and feral cats as priority pests requiring coordinated management.
These species are recognised as high-priority pests due to their impacts on livestock, native wildlife, and overall community wellbeing.
Claimants must have the property owner’s written permission to undertake control activities on their land.
During the trial program, Mount Isa City Council will monitor results and make necessary adjustments before committing to a permanent, large-scale program.