The LNP will deliver a state-of-the-art Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research and Training Precinct, providing critical care for Queensland’s native animals, if elected this month.
An LNP Government would help build fit for purpose facilities to enable Currumbin Wildlife Hospital to continue and expand its current research and training programs, to not only save many native wildlife species from extinction but generate a uniquely Queensland experience for visitors.
The LNP will contribute an additional $2 million funding, on top of the $2 million already committed by the State Government.
The commitment is part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future and follows a commitment to fund Australia’s first Marine Wildlife Hospital at the Sea World Foundation on the Gold Coast, as well as the Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital.
LNP Shadow Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Sam O’Connor said the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research and Training Precinct would be a gamechanger for native wildlife care and give Queenslanders firsthand access to the incredible work our specialised veterinarians carry out.
“The LNP’s commitment will help deliver a purpose-built facility to combine conservation with science and eco-tourism, delivered to meet a rescue demand which has not been resourced under Labor,” Mr O’Connor said.
“The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research and Training Precinct will empower a dedicated team to care for injured native animals while educating and showcasing our cutting-edge environmental management through eco-tourism.”
LNP Member for Currumbin Laura Gerber said the LNP’s commitment would help deliver new labs, a training centre and an interactive guest interpretation centre at the busy wildlife hospital.
“Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world, treating almost 15,000 sick, injured, and orphaned native species every year,” Ms Gerber said.
“The Hospital delivers these services free of charge to the community and is
reaching its maximum capacity, so this facility will give researchers and veterinary staff a new home with the state-of-the-art tools they need to continue their efforts to support koala conservation efforts.
“It will help educate and upskill local veterinary clinics and wildlife carers, while supporting the expansion of Currumbin’s partnerships with universities on important research.”
LNP Candidate for Burleigh Hermann Vorster said eco-tourism was already a major drawcard for visitors to the Gold Coast and would be enhanced by this commitment.
“Important work is already underway here but the LNP’s investment will boost capacity to significantly advance Currumbin Wildlife Hospital’s current conservation programs and generate a new tourism experience for the Gold Coast,” Mr Vorster said.
Dr Michael Pyne OAM, Senior Vet of Currumbin Wildlife Hospital said, “The proposed Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research and Education Campus will ensure the hospital team can continue and expand its current research and training programs.”
“Only through understanding and knowledge can we truly hope to save Australia’s vulnerable species.
“The campus will bring together people who can save native wildlife; it will continue the applied and scientific research programs that are already delivering positive outcomes.
“It will continue to educate the next generation and local vets about wildlife conservation.”
“This commitment is part of the LNP’s Right Plan for Queensland’s Future, to deliver the fresh start our state needs.
“Under Labor, Queensland has the lowest proportion of protected areas of anywhere in Australia, but the LNP is safeguarding our native Queensland wildlife for future generations.
“Queenslanders need a fresh start, and the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research and Training Precinct is part of restoring a government that protects our environment by investing in conservation, science and technology.”