A planned feral-animal control operation in Yuraygir National Park, north of Coffs Harbour, has been temporarily suspended following urgent legal action over the proposed culling of wild horses and other introduced animals. The operation was scheduled to run for several days and included aerial and ground control measures targeting feral horses, pigs, foxes and deer.

The legal challenge was brought by brumby advocate Carmen Jackson, who filed an urgent application with the NSW Land and Environment Court. She argued that the planned operation may not have the required legal authority and raised concerns about the potential impact on the wild horse population in Yuraygir National Park. The application was lodged in the early hours of Monday as authorities prepared to begin the operation.

Following the court proceedings, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service agreed to suspend the planned operations while the legal case progresses. The suspension covers aerial shooting, ground shooting and trapping, meaning the planned removal activities cannot proceed while the matter is before the court. A final hearing has been scheduled for 9 September 2026, when the court is expected to consider the legal issues surrounding the operation.

The case has created renewed debate about the management of brumbies and other introduced animals in national parks across New South Wales. Supporters of the legal challenge argue that the horses should be protected and that concerns about their treatment and removal need to be properly considered.

Environmental experts, however, have argued that feral horses can cause significant damage to native ecosystems. Professor David Watson from Charles Sturt University said introduced horses can compete with native animals for food and resources and damage habitats through their movement and grazing. From an ecological perspective, he argued that feral horses have a serious impact on environments that did not evolve alongside large hoofed animals.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has said animal welfare remains a high priority and that pest-control operations are conducted under established procedures. The department has also confirmed that it will comply with the directions of the court while the proceedings continue.

The dispute has attracted attention from local community members and political representatives in the Coffs Coast and northern NSW region. Some residents have questioned the need for the planned operation, while others support controlling introduced species to protect native wildlife and vegetation.

Yuraygir National Park is an important natural area along the NSW north coast, stretching across a large coastal landscape near communities including Coffs Harbour and Yamba. The outcome of the court case could influence how authorities approach feral-animal management in the park.

For now, the planned culling operation remains on hold, with the next major development expected when the Land and Environment Court considers the matter in September.