NT wildlife parks’ joy as call of the wild answered with $94m commitment

TERRITORY wildlife parks are breathing sighs of relief after the Federal Government’s $94.6 million commitment to keep animal sanctuaries afloat

Crocodylus Park owner Grahame Webb said the Morrison Government’s $94.6 million commitment to keep zoos and wildlife sanctuaries afloat was much needed. Picture: Che Chorley

TERRITORY wildlife facilities are overwhelmed with relief following the federal government’s $94.6 million commitment to keep animal havens afloat.

Yesterday the Morrison Government announced it would give zoos and wildlife sanctuaries Australia-wide impacted by the coronavirus crisis a $94.6 million lifeline to maintain operations.

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The package will support facilities with animal welfare costs such as food, health and specialised care expenses.

Crocodylus Park owner Grahame Webb said the announcement validated the importance of the private tourism sector.

“It’s clear recognition of the role we play,” he said.

“It’s about animal welfare as it should be but it’s more than that. It’s trying to make sure these businesses can survive because they do play a very valuable role in tourism.

“We’ve tried to provide a service for the tourism industry and public and everyone else but it’s a been a costly exercise.”

Prof Webb said five to six staff were needed to service about 1000 animals in the park daily, a huge cost on top of food and other expenses.

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He said he was fortunate enough to continue employing permanent staff through the JobKeeper payment.

“We’re just managing it as best as we can,” he said.

“This will be a serious help to our ability to sustain ourselves.

“We’re unbelievably grateful for the number of people in Darwin who have contacted us and offered to help in various ways. A lot of people understand how difficult it is. You’re between a rock and a hard place in the private sector when you don’t have any money coming in.”