ARTC Baiting Program (Rabbits: Barnawartha and Springhurst)

No longer on display. Expired on 20 February 2026, 12:00 PM

Upcoming rabbit baiting program

Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) will undertake baiting for the control of rabbits within the railway corridor in the Barnawartha and Springhurst areas (please see maps below for specific locations). Baiting will begin on Wednesday 12 February 2026 and is expected to be completed by Thursday 19 February, 2026.

RHDV K5 calicivirus, which will be used in this rabbit baiting program, does not pose a risk to livestock and domestic dogs. RHDV K5 calicivirus is host-specific, meaning it only affects European rabbits and hares. Animals who eat infected rabbits will not develop an infection.

The rabbit baits will be left in place until they are taken or decompose, they will not be collected.

ARTC will place baits at least 150m from dwellings (other than railway dwellings) or public buildings, and 20m from permanent or flowing water bodies, and roadways.

Virus variant: RHDV K5 calicivirus

Target Animal: Rabbit

Bait Type: Carrots

Situation: Railway corridor, especially near to known burrows

Location 1. Rail corridor adjacent to Hume Highway, Barnawartha (278km)

Rail corridor adjacent to Hume Highway - Barnawartha

Location 2. Rail corridor adjacent to Smith Road, Springhurst (260-262km)

Rail corridor adjacent to Smith Road - Springhurst

Contact the baiter:

Name: ARTC Community Relations

Phone Number: 1300 550 402       Email: community@ARTC.com.au