NEW DREAMWORLD BILBY DISPLAY TO HELP LITTLE AUSSIE DIGGER

A new bilby display at Dreamworld is set to complement Beattie Government programs and volunteer efforts to save one of the world’s most endearing marsupials from extinction.

Opening the new display today, Acting Environment Minister and Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the initiative would further raise awareness of the plight of the state’s 500 remaining Greater Bilbies.

“This new display will add to the profile of this appealing desert marsupial and generate additional funds for the Save the Bilby Fund,” Mr Welford said.

“The Save the Bilby Fund has already raised more than $1 million towards bilby protection.

“The display features special lighting which will give Dreamworld visitors the rare opportunity to witness the bilby’s nocturnal activities, without disturbing them.

“The bilby is becoming an Australian celebrity – it’s turning the spotlight on the plight of other endangered species and has the potential to help save others from extinction.”

Mr Welford said State Government initiatives to protect bilbies included the establishment of a captive breeding colony at Charleville, the purchase of Astrebla Downs National Park in the Channel Country as a sanctuary, and education programs through the Bunyaville Environmental Education Centre.

“We also endorsed the efforts of two wildlife officers who set up the Save the Bilby Fund to raise funds for the establishment of a 29 square kilometre predator-proof bilby enclosure in South West Queensland," he said.

“That fenced area is now protecting captive-bred bilbies that have been released into their natural habitat, and their offspring.

“Their Outback home is a world away from the Gold Coast, but this little marsupial has found a big friend in Dreamworld.

“The theme park is helping to preserve a precious part of our natural heritage.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000