Three Tasmanian Devils and two koalas now call the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary home.
The devils were obtained by the Bargo sanctuary in partnership with Tasmania Zoo as part of the Save the Tasmanian Devil program initiative between Tasmania Government and ZAA Zoo and Aquarium Association.
The three female devils provided by Tasmania Zoo are retired from the breeding program, but their presence at Bargo will allow ZAA Zoo and Aquarium Association more space to continue its breeding and conservation program back in Tasmania.
Australian Wildlife Sanctuary managing director Brad Wilson said it was a groundbreaking moment to have such unique animals making their home in the Bargo sanctuary.
“The ability for our small sanctuary to be on the forefront of conservation programs whether it be our breeding programs or conservation through education is just so good,” Mr Wilson said.
“The sanctuary is recognised now by many organisations as the real deal, and this is proven by our accreditation with ZAA Zoo and Aquarium Association – which was a three year process – and the trust we have built with other large zoological institutions.”
To enable the arrival of the devils and the pair of koalas, new enclosures had to be built at the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary.
That’s where local company Tahmoor Coking Coal came in, its $115,000 sponsorship grant put towards the new enclosures and a koala rehabilitation centre.
Tahmoor Coking Coal executive general manager Peter Vale said it was an honour for the company to be an ongoing sponsor of the sanctuary.
“Tahmoor Coking Coal is thrilled to continue our great partnership with such a worthy organisation as the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary,’’ Mr Vale said.
“The conservation and education work they do is truly remarkable and delivered with passion.
“The dedicated care, research, and conservation efforts of Australian Wildlife Sanctuary safeguards the future of our unique wildlife.
“Partnering together, we can ensure a future where Australia’s wildlife thrives in a healthy and sustainable environment,” Mr Vale said.
An official ceremony was held last Friday, [November 29] to welcome the recently arrived koalas and devils.
Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan, Wollondilly Shire councillors and Peter Vale were among those in attendance.
The koalas and Tasmanian Devils can be visited now via tour bookings with the Australian Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located at 3105 Remembrance Driveway, Bargo. Ring the sanctuary on 4210 4116 for more information or visit their website, https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/australian-wildlife-sanctuary/
