The federal government will invest $185,000 in Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary to protect the eastern quoll — an endangered native species — from the threat of H5 bird flu.
Australia is the only continent that has remained free from H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza, but bird flu was detected last year in southern elephant seals on Heard Island, a remote sub-Antarctic Australian external territory 4,000 km south-west of Perth.
Migratory birds have spread the virus rapidly around the world, affecting poultry, wild birds, some mammals, and even people. If H5 bird flu reaches Australia, it could be disastrous for agriculture, wildlife (including threatened species), and communities.
The government’s investment in Mulligans Flat, the largest box-gum grassy-woodland area managed for conservation in Australia, will be used to install biosecurity elements in enclosures; upgrade wildlife triage and isolation for injured and sick animals; and train staff in biosecurity.
Local MP Dr Andrew Leigh said: “The Albanese Government is very pleased to support Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary to continue the important work they do.
“Because bird flu is often spread by migratory birds it’s impossible to completely avoid the risk of it reaching Australia.
“That’s why this funding builds on our Government’s broader $100 million investment to prepare for the arrival of H5 bird flu, which includes $35.9 million to boost environmental measures and accelerate protective action for threatened species.”
The Conservation Council ACT Region was very happy to see the Federal Government investing to support Mulligan’s Flat to prepare for H5 Bird Flu, executive director Dr Simon Copland said.
“Australia has been extremely lucky so far that bird flu has not hit our shores so far. If, and when, it does, it may be devastating for our local wildlife.
“Over the past years, we have received briefings from the ACT Government, and are pleased that both Federal and ACT Governments are preparing strongly for the eventuality of the flu hitting our shores.
“This investment is essential in this preparation — assisting one of our most environmentally sensitive nature reserves to ensure we can protect our wildlife as strongly as possible. We thank the Federal Government for making this investment and hope we can see more in the future.”
The ACT Greens also welcomed the federal investment, and called on the ACT Government to support nature conservation.
Greens deputy leader Jo Clay MLA said: “The Woodlands and Wetlands Trust, who help manage Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary, do incredible work as trusted community partners to deliver the ACT’s nature conservation projects, wildlife protections, and research.
“Today’s announcement is a welcome one and a testament to the hard work they do for our community. It’s no wonder Mulligans Flat have received this funding and have continued to receive ongoing donations from Canberrans – it’s clearly something our community values.
“It would be fantastic to see the ACT Labor Government also recognise this and provide further support for the fantastic work Canberra’s nature conservation and restoration groups to keep our city rich in wildlife, habitat, and beauty.”
