State Government and Australia Zoo expand efforts to save one of the world’s most endangered mammals
Published Thursday, 23 August, 2007 at 01:00 PM
Minister for Environment and Multiculturalism
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr
Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr and Terri Irwin of Australia Zoo have signed a new co-operative agreement to implement conservation actions for the northern hairy-nosed wombat, one of the world’s most endangered mammals, as well as crocodiles, koalas and other native species.
Terri Irwin proudly signed the memorandum of understanding today at Australia Zoo vowing to continue Steve Irwin’s legacy and his amazing work in the protection of endangered species.
“This MOU is so important to continue the co-operative research that Steve first initiated between the QLD government and Australia Zoo,” Mrs Irwin said.
“We will strive to honour Steve’s legacy by protecting the crocodiles he loved, saving more koalas through our Wildlife Hospital and with this new agreement join forces to ensure the survival of the northern hairy nosed wombat. I’m so proud to have signed this memorandum of understanding on behalf of my team of Wildlife Warriors here at Australia Zoo.”
Ms Nelson-Carr said the agreement highlights the partnership between the zoo and the Environmental Protection Agency that has been in place for the past five years.
“Two previous agreements between the Queensland Government and Australia Zoo have led to significant breakthroughs in crocodile research through the world-first Crocs in Space project and the establishment of a koala hospital.
“It’s exciting that this new accord has been expanded for the next two years to include actions to conserve the highly endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat, one of the most at risk mammals in the world, with fewer than 150 living in just one area, at Epping Forest National Park (Scientific) near Clermont in central Queensland,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
Member for Glasshouse Carolyn Male said the MOU would further enhance Australia Zoo’s world-wide reputation.
“I welcome that as part of the latest agreement Terri Irwin has offered the EPA continued access to Croc One a specially designed, state-of-the-art 22.8 metre research vessel for marine research projects, “ Ms Male said.
“The Zoo plays a vital role in the protection of vulnerable species in Queensland and their efforts should be applauded.”
Ms Nelson-Carr said Australia Zoo and the EPA would build on the agency’s efforts to bring the northern hairy-nosed wombat back from the brink of extinction.
“Priority tasks will include maintaining and increasing the existing Epping Forest colony and establishing new colonies.”
Media contacts: Karla Steen (Ms Nelson-Carr’s office) 3336 8004
Katie Maynes (Australia Zoo) 5436 2024 0429 440 141
Carolyn Male 0408 727711 or 5495 2666.
Terri Irwin proudly signed the memorandum of understanding today at Australia Zoo vowing to continue Steve Irwin’s legacy and his amazing work in the protection of endangered species.
“This MOU is so important to continue the co-operative research that Steve first initiated between the QLD government and Australia Zoo,” Mrs Irwin said.
“We will strive to honour Steve’s legacy by protecting the crocodiles he loved, saving more koalas through our Wildlife Hospital and with this new agreement join forces to ensure the survival of the northern hairy nosed wombat. I’m so proud to have signed this memorandum of understanding on behalf of my team of Wildlife Warriors here at Australia Zoo.”
Ms Nelson-Carr said the agreement highlights the partnership between the zoo and the Environmental Protection Agency that has been in place for the past five years.
“Two previous agreements between the Queensland Government and Australia Zoo have led to significant breakthroughs in crocodile research through the world-first Crocs in Space project and the establishment of a koala hospital.
“It’s exciting that this new accord has been expanded for the next two years to include actions to conserve the highly endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat, one of the most at risk mammals in the world, with fewer than 150 living in just one area, at Epping Forest National Park (Scientific) near Clermont in central Queensland,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
Member for Glasshouse Carolyn Male said the MOU would further enhance Australia Zoo’s world-wide reputation.
“I welcome that as part of the latest agreement Terri Irwin has offered the EPA continued access to Croc One a specially designed, state-of-the-art 22.8 metre research vessel for marine research projects, “ Ms Male said.
“The Zoo plays a vital role in the protection of vulnerable species in Queensland and their efforts should be applauded.”
Ms Nelson-Carr said Australia Zoo and the EPA would build on the agency’s efforts to bring the northern hairy-nosed wombat back from the brink of extinction.
“Priority tasks will include maintaining and increasing the existing Epping Forest colony and establishing new colonies.”
Media contacts: Karla Steen (Ms Nelson-Carr’s office) 3336 8004
Katie Maynes (Australia Zoo) 5436 2024 0429 440 141
Carolyn Male 0408 727711 or 5495 2666.