I welcome the announcement that the World Wide Fund for Nature Australia (WWF-Australia) will partner with Phillip Island Nature Parks to create a new exhibition about the Southern Ocean and Antarctic region.
The Phillip Island exhibit will provide a fabulous insight into the sights, sounds, smells and beauty of the Antarctic.
The habitat, environment and conditions in the Antarctic, make it the perfect area to showcase and Phillip Island, as the gateway to the Southern Ocean, is best placed to deliver this exhibit.
I commend the State Government, Phillip Island Nature Parks and WWF-Australia for partnering to bring this terrific exhibit to life.
As Minister for the Environment I have responsibility for the Australian Antarctica Division and recognise the importance of the Southern Ocean as part of our marine environment.
We want to see the Antarctic environment preserved not just for a short period, but for the long term. Australia has a major role to play in achieving that outcome, including through its world-leading scientific work. This will be supported by our 20 Year Strategic Plan for Antarctica which is currently being developed for release mid-year.
We are also working hard through the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) to establish the East Antarctic marine protected area.
The East Antarctic proposal, led by Australia, France and the European Union, covers areas which host important ecological processes, such as nursery areas for toothfish and krill and foraging areas for marine mammals and penguins.
During my recent visit to New Zealand, I also announced Australia’s commitment to work closely with New Zealand on achieving a global high seas agreement.
I look forward to attending the exhibit and experiencing this terrific simulated journey to the Antarctic.
Media contact: Samantha Robin on 03 5979 3188 or 0427 787 166