LNP shells out for turtle rehab at tourist hotspot Green Island
A fourth Far North sea turtle rescue and education centre is now a step closer to reality following an election pledge from the LNP.
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A fourth Far North sea turtle rescue and education centre is now a step closer to reality following an election pledge from the LNP.
The $600,000 commitment to build a world-class turtle rehabilitation centre on Green Island comes months after a $100,000 donation toward the project by Swedish charity the Perfect World Foundation.
The proposed centre will build upon the work being done by turtle rehabilitation centres at the Cairns Aquarium, Fitzroy Island and at James Cook University.
LNP Leader David Crisafulli said the commitment to build the Green Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre formed part of the LNP’s Supporting Wildlife, Preserving our Environment policy.
“(Funding) will save endangered turtles, boost conservation and protection for the Great Barrier Reef and enhance our world-leading marine research efforts,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“This commitment will boost scientific research into turtle diseases and injuries and provide critical training opportunities for marine veterinarians, marine biologists and ecologists.”
Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre co-founder Jennie Gilbert welcomed the announcement that would help heal turtles suffering injury caused by fishing nets, boat strike or plastic pollution.
Previously announced, the Quicksilver Group is sponsoring the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre by providing the site on Green Island, and access to infrastructure including the desalinator and power.
Originally published as LNP shells out for turtle rehab at tourist hotspot Green Island
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