JOINT MEDIA RELEASE WITH MELISSA PRICE MP, FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DURACK
The Australian Government is delivering on its Durack electorate commitment to reduce the threat of cane toads in the Kimberley region of Western Australia with $500,000 in funding through the Kimberley Cane Toad Clean Up Programme over 2014-2015 and 2015-2016.
Cane toads were introduced to Australia in 1935. They are commonly found across the Northern Territory, Queensland and northern New South Wales, and have more recently spread into Western Australia.
“Cane toads pose a significant threat to biodiversity in the Kimberley, particularly to threatened species such as the northern quoll,” said Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt.
“Cane toads are highly toxic to predators and are responsible for the rapid decline of many species that are poisoned when they try to eat them. They also have hearty appetites and compete with smaller predators, such as native frogs and lizards, for food.”
“The Kimberley Cane Toad Clean Up will be delivered by Rangelands Natural Resource Management and will bring together local practitioners, researchers and community groups to address the threat of cane toads.”
Member for Durack, Melissa Price said the bulk of funding will support Aboriginal rangers, land managers and community groups across the Kimberley region to implement on-ground works to reduce the impact of cane toads.
“Rangelands NRM have already received the project funding and have commenced project planning and engagement of key stakeholders.”
“Almost one third of the funds will support community groups such as The Kimberley Toad Busters for delivery of community awareness and education in locations such as Kununurra, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing, Derby and Broome to educate locals about the devastating impact cane toads have on native species and habitats.” Ms Price said.
The programme aligns with the Western Australian Government’s Cane Toad Strategy for Western Australia 2014-2019.
The Kimberley Cane Toad Clean Up Programme is part of the Australian Government’s $2 billion investment over the next four years to protect Australia’s natural resources.
Further details on the National Landcare Programme are available at www.nrm.gov.au
For updates on the Kimberley Cane Toad Clean Up see the Rangelands NRM website at http://www.rangelandswa.com.au/
(ENDS)