Released 31/07/2018
Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman today celebrated World Ranger Day and personally thanked ACT Parks and Conservation Service staff for their commitment to the environment.
“World Ranger Day is celebrated internationally and commemorates rangers and those who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” Minister Gentleman said.
“Rangers in some parts of the world face life threatening situations. They are often the only line of defence for animals and protected areas.
“In the ACT, we recognise the sacrifices faced by our colleagues. In the Congo, rangers face danger on a daily basis from insurgents and poachers. Closer to home, we remember the Australian contractor who tragically died in a rock fall in the Blue Mountains late last year while constructing a walking track.
“Our ACT rangers regularly deal with dangerous situations, such as responding to reports of venomous snakes, battling bushfires, and rescuing lost hikers and injured wildlife with the help of our wonderful volunteers and emergency services.
“Our rangers are passionate about the Bush Capital, are advocates for the great outdoors, and work on nation leading initiatives such as re-establishing endangered species in the region, bushfire fuel management, feral animal control and looking after our beautiful reserves.”
Minister Gentleman also launched a schools-based competition to name two new ACT Parks and Conservation Service Gang Gang mascots.
“The two new Gang Gang mascots hopefully bring some extra attention to World Ranger Day in the city today. The competition to name our new Gang Gangs is now open to all ACT primary schools. To enter, schools can head to the ACT Parks and Conservation Facebook page,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
Canberrans can support rangers worldwide by donating to the Thin Green Line Foundation, the world’s only charity solely dedicated to supporting park rangers as they protect threatened species and ecosystems.
Donations to this cause can be made at http://www.thingreenline.org.au/
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases