“This funding will support Council to implement the Kooloonbung Creek flying-fox camp management plan,” Mrs Williams said.

“Port Macquarie-Hastings Council was one of 15 local government areas to receive funding in this round of the NSW State Government’s Flying-fox Grant Program that supports local communities living with flying foxes.

“Flying-foxes are a protected native species in NSW, with the grey-headed flying-fox also protected as a threatened species.

“There are three species of flying-fox native to NSW - the grey-headed, black and little red flying-foxes. The largest and most vulnerable of the three is the Grey-headed Flyingfox, which weighs up to a kilogram and has a one-metre wing span.”

Environment Minister Matt Kean said the NSW Government is also working to reduce the conflict between people and flying-fox colonies by supporting long-term solutions that improve and restore flying-fox habitat.

“When flying-fox colonies decide to set-up camp close to houses, noise and odour issues can cause concerns for residents,” Mr Kean said.

“Flying-foxes are native to NSW and protected by law. We are working to protect these nomadic creatures but also look after the health of our community.

“This program has been going since 2016 and already supported 25 councils to manage flying-fox camps and help local communities.

“The grants are administered by Local Government NSW and will be extended to the end of 2019.”

Under the Flying-fox Habitat Restoration Program, the NSW Environmental Trust has committed $5 million to trial flying-fox habitat restoration away from human settlements.