Avian Influenza Detected in Hamilton
Published on 13 August 2026
Southern Grampians Shire Council is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid contact with sick or dead birds and wildlife following confirmation that the avian influenza strain H5N1 has been detected in the Southern Grampians.
Department of Agriculture advise that testing has identified H5N1 avian influenza in a single greater crested tern found in Hamilton this week. No further reports have been received.
Chief Executive Officer Tony Doyle said the detection highlights the importance of community awareness and prompt reporting.
"We understand this news may be concerning for our community. The advice from animal health and wildlife authorities is clear. If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them. Record what you observe, note the location and report it immediately.
Early reporting gives authorities the best opportunity to monitor the disease and help minimise impacts on wildlife, agriculture and our environment,” Mr Doyle said.
While the risk to human health remains very low, residents are advised to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife, including birds and marine mammals.
Mr Doyle said Council was working closely with relevant state agencies and supporting community awareness efforts across the shire.
"As we know, Southern Grampians Shire is home to significant agricultural and environmental assets. We all also have a role to play in helping protect our local wildlife.
“We encourage residents, farmers and visitors to follow biosecurity advice and report any concerns to the appropriate authorities."
What to do if you see sick or dead wildlife:
AVOID
- Contact with sick or dead birds, wildlife or their environment.
RECORD
- What you see.
- The location.
- Photos or videos if it is safe to do so.
REPORT
- Clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species.
- A single sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird, bird of prey or marine mammal such as a seal, sea lion or dolphin.
Reports can be made through the Agriculture Victoria https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/H5N1-avian-influenza-H5-bird-flu
or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888
Signs of H5N1 avian influenza in birds may include sudden death, lack of coordination, tremors, difficulty standing or flying, respiratory symptoms, swelling around the eyes or head, and unusual behaviour.
Poultry owners are also encouraged to review their biosecurity measures, including limiting contact between domestic poultry and wild birds, maintaining clean facilities and practising good hygiene when handling birds or eggs.
For more information or to report sick or dead wildlife, visit the Agriculture Victoria website or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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