Coulton joins Gunnedah community in supporting local koala champions
09-February-2010
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has thrown his support behind Waterways Wildlife Park owners Nancy and Colin Small in their battle to retrieve eight koalas taken by the RSPCA last week.
Mr Coulton said the news the animals were removed from the park shocked those in the Gunnedah region who are well aware of Mr and Mrs Small’s esteemed reputation for their tireless work in protecting the region’s wildlife.
“Reports that the koalas were apparently suffering from dehydration and malnutrition have stunned everyone who know John and Nancy and their enduring commitment to the welfare of many of the regions injured and most vulnerable native species,” he said.
“They have an extremely well deserved reputation as carers of koalas and have been champions of koala protection and conservation for many, many years.
“It would be very hard to find any couple in western NSW who could match the commitment shown by the Smalls to conserving local wildlife over the past few decades.”
Mr Coulton welcomed the staunch support shown by Gunnedah Shire Council in launching the Waterways Wildlife Support Fund.
“The Council’s generous contribution to the fund and Mayor Adam Marshall’s commitment to this cause is very commendable and has helped rally the Gunnedah community behind the Smalls,” he said.
Mr Coulton welcomed news the RSPCA has initiated an investigation into the abrupt removal of the koalas.
“The RSPCA obviously have an outstanding record of animal welfare but they have certainly jeopardised the Small’s reputation and added to their anguish by allowing such a distressing incident to be filmed for a nationally-syndicated television show,” he said.
“I have personally spoken to Nancy and she is still quite distraught at having had the koalas removed and the manner in which they were taken. I was very concerned to hear that the RSPCA organised the removal to be filmed for a television program.
“I sincerely hope that Nancy and Colin’s account of the events that led to the removal of the eight koalas is earnestly considered during the inquiry.”