Tuesday, 13 August 2019

Dingo Discovery Sanctuary and Research Centre

Mr McGHIE (Melton) (13:25): On Saturday, 6 July, I was delighted to attend and officially open this year’s Dingo Puppy Encounters at the Dingo Discovery Sanctuary and Research Centre in Toolern Vale.

Mr Edbrooke: Where was my invite?

Mr McGHIE: Next time. The sanctuary is owned and operated by the Australian Dingo Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation with the following aims: highlight the critical ecological role dingoes play as Australia’s apex land predator; educate the public about the persecution of dingoes in the wild; and maintain a captive breeding population for non-invasive research and potential future reintroduction projects. The iconic Australian dingo is the most misunderstood and persecuted of all Australian native species. This much-loved, native wild canid performs an important ecological function as Australia's only apex land predator. Abundant emerging science has shown that the dingo’s positive role in maintaining ecological health is a win-win for the environment, wildlife and farmers alike.

Listed both as a threatened species in the state of Victoria as well as by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the main focus of the Australian Dingo Foundation is to end the slaughter of dingoes in the wild. To achieve this outcome the Australian Dingo Foundation works with leading international and Australian research scientists to conduct a range of non-invasive research as well as to facilitate educational programs. Over 40 dingos reside at the sanctuary and visitors are often greeted with a vast array of wildlife. Before joining adult dingoes or energetic and playful puppies out in a field, visitors are given a fun and interesting presentation on the mission of the establishment, what makes dingos special and how they can help ensure their survival in the wild.