Port River dolphin petition latest in power struggle over safety and health care of vanishing pod

A push to “stop the incompetence and neglect killing the Port River dolphins” is gathering pace.

A petition calling on Environment Minister David Speirs to “stop the incompetence and neglect killing the Port River dolphins” has amassed more than 850 signatures.

Jenni Wyrsta of Port River Dolphin Watch organised the change.org petition because she wants the volunteer-led Australian Marine Wildlife Research and Rescue Organisation to treat all sick, injured and entangled dolphins in the sanctuary, rather than the rangers.

“Too many dolphins have died from neglect,” she said.

“This population of wild dolphins is in fast decline. We call on Minister Speirs … to hand over health care of these dolphins to the Australian Marine Wildlife Research and Rescue Organisation.”

The Port River community is mourning the death of 12-year-old dolphin Tallula after the disturbing disappearance of two other dolphins, Doc and Twinkle. Both dolphins had suffered various injuries from encounters with fishing tackle and their condition appeared to deteriorate as a result.

Supplied Editorial Fwd: Petition to end the incompetence and neglect of Port River Dolphins.

In June, rangers and a vet from Adelaide Zoo removed one large barbed hook and three small hooks from Doc’s mouth, fin and tail.

Blood and tissue samples were taken but no antibiotics were given.

Tallula’s dead body was taken to the SA Museum for an autopsy but there was no obvious disease or other cause of emaciation.

A state government investigation into the cause of ill health among dolphins in the sanctuary has begun.

“Necropsy results will play an important part as well as input from external independent, qualified veterinarians and experts with experience in the management of marine mammals, as well as researchers and other relevant government departments,” a spokesman said.

“The Department for Environment and Water will continue working with a range of experts including AMWRRO in regards to marine mammal health and interventions where required.”

AMWRRO founder and director Aaron Machado, pictured, said he was not involved in the petition but he appreciated Ms Wyrsta’s support as he wanted to do more for the dolphins.

“We are in the middle of developing memorandum of understanding with the department, which is great for us,” he said.

“That will give us a definitive understanding as to who does what, when, where and how. So it’s a step forward.”