- First of its kind Marine Hospital to be built at Sea World on the Gold Coast.
- Hospital to expand marine rescue and treat injured marine life.
- $10 million commitment a major boost to eco-tourism on the Gold Coast.
The LNP has today announced a Sea World Marine Wildlife Hospital to protect marine life, provide education and improve conservation efforts in Queensland’s waterways.
The first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sea World Marine Wildlife Hospital will be equipped to rescue and treat marine life, from birds to dolphins, sharks, seals, whales and any other sick or injured sea animals; and be open to the public to observe the vital work as it happens.
LNP Deputy Leader Jarrod Bleijie said the Sea World Marine Wildlife Hospital would save and enhance marine animal populations and give Queenslanders firsthand access to the incredible work our specialised veterinarians and marine scientists carry out.
“The LNP’s commitment will deliver the first Marine Wildlife Hospital of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere to care for injured marine animals,” Mr Bleijie said.
“This purpose-built facility will combine conservation with science and eco-tourism, delivered to meet a rescue demand which has not been resourced under Labor as our waterways become more popular.
“The LNP’s commitment to delivering the Sea World Marine Wildlife Hospital will protect our environment by investing in conservation, science and technology.”
Shadow Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Sam O’Connor said the project would cement the Gold Coast as a world leader in marine rescue, science and conservation.
“This commitment is part of the LNP’s focus on preserving our environment with more protection and support for injured marine life,” Mr O’Connor said.
“The Marine Wildlife Hospital will empower a dedicated team to care for injured marine animals while educating and showcasing our cutting-edge environmental management through eco-tourism.
“Labor has failed to deliver genuine environmental outcomes, missing every target for the container for change program, and failed to roll out the single use plastics ban.”
LNP Member for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek said eco-tourism was already a major drawcard for visitors to the Gold Coast would be enhanced by this commitment.
“Important work is already underway here but the LNP’s investment will boost the capacity to deliver more marine rescue and treat more injured marine wildlife with specialist veterinary services,” Mr Langbroek said.
“This commitment is part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future, to deliver the fresh start our state needs.
“Only by voting LNP and showing Labor the door in 2024 will the Gold Coast have a world-class Marine Wildlife Hospital."