Authority warns river users of numerous snake reports

Deadly snakes were on the move around the Barwon River in Geelong, authorities warned yesterday.
Corangamite Catchment Man-agement Authority said “numerous calls” had reported snakes along popular walking paths.
The authority urged residents to be careful as warm weather brought snakes out of their winter haunts.
Authority Geelong contract manager Mark Schirmer the Yollinko wetland area near Highton was a hot-spot this year.
Most reports were of tiger snakes, he said.
“The snakes hunt frogs in the Yollinko wetland and have been coming out to sun themselves on the path,” Mr Schirmer said.
“We urge everyone to be vigilant, particularly on hot days. Avoid leaving the paths or walking in long grass and please don’t try to touch, catch, kill or move a snake.”
Mr Schirmer urged walkers to also keep their dogs on leads and a close eye on children.
The catchment authority was erecting warning signs in the area, he said.
The authority would keep lawns short along the river to help users spot snakes.
Mr Schirmer advised people to keep their distance.
“Snakes are part of the natural environment and protected by law – the best thing for people to do is avoid snakes,” he said.
The catchment authority manages 20 kilometres of the Barwon River, from Queen’s Park Bridge to the lower breakwater.