Hunter Island Lost to Conservation

February 2006

Threatened wildlife on Hunter Island in Bass Strait was dealt a blow this month, with the awarding of the island's lease to graziers.  Bush Heritage were unsuccessful in their bid to manage the island as a refuge for endangered plants and animals such as the orange-bellied parrot and the leafy greenhood orchid.  The announcement of the lease provoked much media attention, including:

- "Hunter Island leased to graziers", ABC News Online, 8 February 2006

- ABC TV News, Tasmania, 8 February 2006

- ABC Radio News, Tasmania, 8 February 2006

- ABC Premium News, Australia, 7PM, 8 February 2006

- "Family joy at island return", The Mercury, 9 February 2006

- "Hunter Island cattle grazing go-ahead", The Advocate, 9 February 2006

- "Criticism continues over Hunter Island decision", ABC News Online, 9 February 2006

- ABC Radio, Tasmania, Morning Program, 9 February 2006 

- "Family farm lands", Tasmanian Country, 10 February 2006

- "Island lease care plan", The Mercury, 10 February 2006

See also Bush Heritage Australia's media release: "Hunter Island Lost for Conservation"