Bird Flu cases confirmed in Surf Coast Shire

Published on 20 August 2026

We advise all community members to follow the advice and directions of Agriculture Victoria, following the first confirmed cases of H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) within the Surf Coast Shire.

H5N1 avian influenza is a viral disease that affects birds and wildlife.

While the risk to human health remains low, Agriculture Victoria – the lead agency in the response to the Victorian outbreak – advises people not to touch sick or dead birds or wildlife, and to report suspected cases as soon as possible.

What to do if you find a dead or sick bird

Agriculture Victoria advises to:

• Avoid touching or handling sick or dead birds or wildlife;
• Avoid direct contact with birds and their droppings;
• Record what you see, including the location and the number of birds affected;

• Report clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species; and

• Report even a single sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird, bird of prey, seal or dolphin.

Reports can be made online via Agriculture Victoria's wildlife reporting form or to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Sick or dead poultry and livestock should be reported immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.

Residents and visitors are also encouraged to:

• Keep dogs on a lead and prevent pets from approaching or scavenging dead birds.
• Wash hands thoroughly after outdoor activities, particularly if there has been any contact with bird droppings.
• Follow all current advice issued by Agriculture Victoria.

Council will support the response, including via the safe removal of dead birds from Council-managed land such as parks and reserves, when there is a risk to public health or an impact on community use.

If a sick or dead bird is on Council land and affecting use of a community facility – for example if it is on a sports field, playground or walking track – members of the community can report it via our request form or by calling 5261 0600.

Our staff will attend the site to make an assessment and determine if removal is required.

Mayor Libby Stapleton said news of confirmed cases in the shire would undoubtedly cause community concern.

“Unfortunately it will be confronting seeing birds sick and dying from this disease, and many people will understandably be feeling upset,” Mayor Stapleton said.

"The most important thing we can all do right now is avoid touching sick or dead birds, keep pets away from them, and report sightings to Agriculture Victoria.

“Anyone with poultry should also closely follow the advice about how best to keep their flocks safe.

“We also need to reinforce that the risk to human health remains low.”

The situation is likely to evolve quickly, so all community members are encouraged to keep checking the Agriculture Victoria website for the latest information and advice.