The State Government recognises with increased visitor activity, there must be hard work to ensure the protection of what makes our state a premium destination for visitors.
Premier Will Hodgman welcomed a new, unique partnership between Tourism Tasmania and global travel company, Abercrombie & Kent (A&K), which will support the work of Tasmania’s Raptor Refuge.
The Refuge is a not-for-profit organisation on a 20-acre property overlooking Kettering and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.
The inspiring Refuge clearly reflects the dedication to caring and protecting Tasmania’s natural wildlife, and the proximity of the Refuge to the birds’ natural habitat is a great advantage for rehabilitation.
The three large raptor flight aviaries are purpose-built to flight train Wedge-tailed eagles, Sea-Eagles and other birds, during their recovery from injury.
Along with the three huge flight aviaries there is a large owl aviary and nine slatted aviaries to house many and varied species of raptors, with one bank of aviaries built solely for quarantine purposes.
Premier Hodgman said, “Tourism Tasmania has been working with A&K Philanthropy to identify a Tasmanian wildlife conservation project to be part of their global program and it’s fantastic that Raptor Refuge has been selected to receive ongoing support from A&K.”
“Raptor Refuge, established by conservationist and veterinary nurse Craig Webb, is the largest refuge for injured birds of prey in the southern hemisphere.
“This new partnership recognises the important work of the Refuge and will be A&K Philanthropy’s only Australian project.
“This is a great example of our tourism partners giving back to the community to ensure we protect our unique way of life,” said the Premier.
A&K Philanthropy’s investment will support the construction of a new, larger flight aviary to enable the rehabilitation of a greater number of Tasmanian raptors and improved facilities for research and education.
Sujata Raman, A&K’s regional marketing director, Australia/Asia Pacific said, “Caring for rare wildlife and pristine landscapes is one of the principles of A&K Philanthropy and we are so pleased to support a project right here in Australia that is doing such important work in the area of conservation and the protection of endangered species.”
A&K clients will also have a unique opportunity to experience and learn more about the Raptor Refuge’s important work during their stay in the state.
Ziggy Gow – Webb releases a Sea Eagle north of Opossum Bay on Tuesday, May 14, after rehabilitation at the Raptor Refuge in Kettering. (PS)
