A new predator proof fence around the Hamilton Sanctuary to protect threatened species is now complete, thanks to a $500,000 investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
The Hamilton Parklands Predator Proof Fence upgrade will better protect endangered and threatened animals such as the Eastern Barred Bandicoot and the Fat-tailed Dunnart.
The new barrier will protect vulnerable animals by keeping predators out of the 107-hectare sanctuary, while also allowing for other endangered species to be released or temporarily housed in the area.
The extra protection encourages the recovery of Eastern Barred Bandicoot population numbers in the area and makes a strong contribution to the state-wide recovery population target of 2500 animals.
In 2021, the Eastern Barred Bandicoot was the first Australian species to have its conservation status reclassified from Extinct in the Wild to Endangered.
The structure includes a ‘floppy top’ to prevent predators, such as cats and foxes, from entering the enclosure.
This was thanks to over 40 years of conservation efforts by Conservation Volunteers Australia, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Odonata Foundation, Parks Victoria, Phillip Island Nature Parks, University of Melbourne, the Victorian Government, and Zoos Victoria.
Hamilton Sanctuary will also be an emergency shelter location for animals affected by bushfires, giving them a secure home while they wait to be returned to their natural habitat when the risk subsides.
The upgrade plays a key role as part of a network of Safe Havens across the state. The project is part of a significant investment from the Government in wildlife recovery following the 2019-2020 bushfires.
The upgrade is part of the $62.2 million Bushfire Biodiversity Response and Recovery program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“Hamilton Sanctuary provides a secure home to several endangered and threatened species, including the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, Fat-tailed Dunnart and Rock Wallaby. It also acts as emergency shelter for animals displaced by bushfires.”
“The upgraded fence will keep these endangered and threatened animals safe from predators, encouraging their population growth.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
“This project in the west of the state builds on the more than 40 years of conservation work by a number of partners that saw the Eastern Barred Bandicoot brought back from near extinction.”
Reviewed 17 March 2023