‘That’s really good to see that support continue’: Gov extends $95m support package for zoos and aquariums

TERRITORY zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks have welcomed news the federal government will be extending a $94 million support program to maintain animals

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THE Federal Government is extending a $94 million lifeline for zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks struggling during the coronavirus crisis.

Treasurer Josh Frydenburg unveiled the zoos and aquarium program would be extended by six months to maintain their animal populations where their tourism revenue has been affected by travel and social distancing restrictions.

The funding will help pay for feeding, housing and providing veterinary care to animals over the next six months.

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The program has been a huge help for iconic Darwin destinations like Crocodylus Park in Berrimah, which had to shut down during the peak of COVID temporarily.

“It costs a substantial amount to feed and take care of all of these animals,” owner Grahame Webb said.

“It’s also quite hard to keep on top of costs when you have big infrastructure and a long-term commitment.”

Crocodylus Park zoo keeper Dani Greenwood with dingo pups, Alkina and Yera Junior. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford.

Park manager Emily Moyes said zookeepers at Crocodylus Park are tasked with dishing out hundreds of kilos of food to the animals, ranging from lions and crocs to monkeys and dingoes, each week.

“There’s a huge variety from pig, horse and chicken meat, seafood, dry food and a lot of fruit and vegetables with supplements on top of that,” she said.

The federal government’s cash support also helped staff take care of the scaly critters at Crocosaurus Cove after COVID hit last year.

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General manager Penny Eckel said she was pleased to see the program has been extended.

“That’s really good to see that support continue because last year, even though we were forced to shut down temporarily, you can’t shut down the animals,” she said.

“They still have to be cared for, and that can be costly.

“It’s not just feeding. Also, those costs included vet checks, things like heat lamps for the lizards in our reptile area and more.”