$95M BONE FROM FEDS? WE’RE FELINE OK
STRUGGLING Gold Coast theme parks with animal attractions will be able to get their claws into a funding lifeline worth $95 million today. The Federal Government deal will go towards exhibiting zoos and aquariums hit hard by the COVID-19 to help pay for animal upkeep. Animal attractions and theme parks have been closed since strict social restrictions came into force.
STRUGGLING Gold Coast theme parks with animal attractions will get a funding lifeline worth $95 million today.
Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said the initiative would provide vital assistance for exhibiting zoos and aquariums hit hard by the COVID-19 and needed funds for fixed operational costs for animal care.
“It’s crucial that the wildlife sanctuaries and aquariums across the Gold Coast can continue to operate on the other side and play a major role in helping our tourism industry to recover from this,” he said.
The Bulletin understands lobbying by Moncrieff MP
Angie Bell after discussions with Coast theme park operators was critical to the deal.
Environment Minister Sussan Ley said the funding would help ensure quality treatment and care for animals at zoos and theme parks.
“While COVID-19 may be keeping visitors away, zookeepers, aquarium owners and veterinarians continue to play a lead role in wildlife recovery after the bushfires, from treatment and rehabilitation to the development of insurance populations,” she said.
“At the same time, they are caring for millions of animals that live permanently within their network and this is critical funding to support the welfare of those animals along with the vital ongoing role zoos play in conserving our environment and protecting native species.”
The grants will contribute towards up to six months of animal welfare operating costs, and operators can also apply for the JobKeeper program to assist with staffing costs.
Ms Bell told the Bulletin: “This is a lifeline to the Gold Coast theme parks where revenue has dried up as a result of the COVID-19. I held a meeting with Village Roadshow, Dreamworld and the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment to discuss how to best support our tourism icons during this time to ensure they can bounce back once restrictions ease.”