TESS Wildlife jumping ahead
AFTER the heart-breaking loss of several native animals during the floods last year, the Fraser Coast TESS Wildlife Sanctuary is expanding its Mungar Rd site to include higher ground.
The floods also destroyed fencing and other infrastructure, which will be replaced thanks to $227,000 in funding from the Australian government's Natural Disaster Flexible Funding Program.
The boundary fence will be extended to increase the area available for enclosures and wildlife exhibits by an extra 5000sq m.
Sanctuary curator Ray Revill said some of the money would be used to build new bird enclosures, including a walk-through aviary.
"This aviary will give the public the opportunity to walk through an open, relaxed space with living and constructed habitat and water features, as they interact with some of the most beautiful birds Australia has to offer," Mr Revill said.
"The sanctuary pathways will lead our visitors on an adventure with native wildlife."
The expansion will also provide on-the-job experience for local jobseekers and trainees, who will help build the fence and aviaries, work on improved wheelchair access areas and public entry, landscaping, picnic spaces and other improvements.
Mr Stone said Fraser Coast suppliers and businesses would be used wherever possible, and would appreciate any in-kind support or donations.
The sanctuary will be closed for final work to be completed from June 18 to July 2.
To help, contact project manager Jenni Chew on 0428873341.
