The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions has moved to protect the vulnerable population of Little Penguins at Penguin Island.
The Department’s research has shown climate change and warming seawater temperatures are likely causes of a concerning decline in Little Penguin numbers.
In a statement, the Department said that starting this summer, Penguin Island would be closed or only partially opened to the public when the forecast maximum temperature was 35 degrees or higher.
“The current annual winter seasonal closure of Penguin Island will be extended by at least four weeks to accommodate a prolonged breeding season, which has been extending later each year,” the Department said.
“The Department will also not proceed with the planned new discovery centre on Penguin Island, instead allocating up to $250,000 to investigate the feasibility of locating the facility at Mersey Point or at another location on the mainland.”
It said the existing Penguin Island Discovery Centre was nearing the end of its life and would be demolished.
“The State Government will also allocate $150,000 for additional research to further understand the status of the Little Penguin population and how it can be protected into the future,” it said.
Minister for the Environment and Climate Action, Reece Whitby said the health and welfare of the Little Penguins was a number one priority when considering how best to plan for the future of Penguin Island.
“I understand the decision will disappoint some and reduce the number of days that people can visit the island, but I believe the community will support measures to protect this vulnerable population of penguins,” Mr Whitby said.
“I look forward to the findings of the research being undertaken by the Department and others to better understand how we can support and protect the Little Penguins into the future,” he said.
