The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries wants the State’s zoos, wildlife parks and aquariums to be destinations of choice for Queenslanders as vaccination targets are reached and people begin to travel again.
Speaking at Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner said animal exhibitors played an important part in wildlife education and conservation in Queensland.
“As we approach the summer school holidays, we want to see more visitors to locations like Australia Zoo, as well as the countless wildlife parks and aquariums across the State,” Mr Furner said.
“That’s why Queensland’s COVID-vaccine plan is so important — the more Queenslanders are vaccinated, the safer we’ll all be.”
Mr Furner said the Government had been a strong supporter of Queensland’s animal exhibitors since the COVID-19 global pandemic.
“The Department oversees the licensing of exhibited animals from zoos to aquariums and even mobile exhibits and circuses,” he said.
“Half a million dollars was made available to help operators care for their animals, and 34 businesses were able to use their one-off grants to help with the continued care and management of their businesses.”
The Minister said now was the time for Queenslanders to think about heading to their nearest zoo, wildlife park or aquarium this summer.
“Last year we assisted industry — now it’s time for Queenslanders to step up, get the jab and get visiting,” he said.
“It’s a great way to support the local exhibited animal industry while learning about our unique wildlife,” Mr Furner said.
