The Koala Island Foundation has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of almost $50,000 for koala management on Raymond Island, while calling for local knowledge and experience to be included in deciding how the funding
is used.
Koala Island Foundation president Robyn Peile said neither the Foundation nor Koalas of Raymond Island, whose volunteers have extensive experience rescuing and caring for the Island’s koalas, had been advised or consulted about the funding.
“We certainly welcome any additional investment in the health and future of Raymond Island’s koala population,” Mrs Peile said.
“However, we were surprised that the two local organisations working directly with the Island’s koalas had not been consulted about what is needed or how the funding might best be used.
“Considerable local knowledge has been built up over many years through koala rescue and care, observation, monitoring and research.
“We sincerely hope this knowledge is taken into account and that the funding is directed to where it can deliver the greatest practical benefit.
“With a relatively modest amount of funding available, it is particularly important that every dollar is used effectively and that existing work is built upon rather than duplicated.”
Mrs Peile said the Foundation would welcome the opportunity to work constructively with the State Government and the agencies responsible for delivering the program.
“This isn’t about who receives the funding. It is about making sure decisions affecting Raymond Island’s koalas are informed by the people who know the population and the local environment.
“We all want the same outcome – a healthy and sustainable koala population on Raymond Island, supported by the best available research, local knowledge and on-ground experience.”
