Did you know that pest controllers have killed over 500 rats inside just one complex in Coogee Beach? Coogee residents are calling for immediate action and better pest control to address the alarming rat infestation problem impacting public health.
One new Coogee resident was shocked to see rats on the road, the bushes and the grass next to his multi-million dollar home. Philip Jajou said no one warned him about this issue when he purchased his new mansion.
Mr Jajou posted his rat encounter on TikTok, where many commenters remarked that rats have been a part of Coogee for decades. However, they also said that the new homeowner should have been told by his real estate agent or did his due diligence before buying a house in Coogee.
@philipjajou Why didn’t anyone warn me ? #rat #mouse #beach #storytime #storytimes #fyp #disgusting #animals ♬ Funny Song – Cavendish Music
Coogee residents have also complained about the enormous size of the rats, prompting local mums to suggest installing signs to be posted across the suburbs, especially at the kids’ playgrounds.
Coogee is one of many suburbs in Sydney with a rat infestation problem. In Surry Hills, these pests can also be seen anywhere, even in broad daylight. It’s a critical issue that has drawn comparison with New York’s worst rat problem so much so that its mayor had to hire a Rat Tsar to control the infestation.
“I am regularly approached by community members alarmed by the number of rats they see in the City of Sydney,” said Cr Yvonne Weldon.
“I’m also regularly approached by residents who have experienced delayed and missed waste collections. I appreciate how deeply frustrating this can be.
“It’s no surprise then that Sydney’s rat infestation is only getting worse. It’s a serious public health issue.
“Council needs to look at all available methods of rat eradication and control strategies. We must also act urgently to implement further improvements in waste management services.”
Meanwhile, Randwick City Council acknowledged an increase in complaints but could not provide data on the rat infestation.
As stated on its official site:
“Council will only implement vermin treatments where an infestation or risk to public health is on public land under the control of Randwick City Council. Any infestation involving private land will be the responsibility of the landowner or occupier to control by engaging the services of a licensed pest controller.”
Published 1 February 2023
