What is the Australian Platypus Conservancy?
The Australian Platypus Conservancy is working to
ensure that conservation of this unique mammal receives the attention that
it deserves. At present, very few researchers are dedicated to studying
platypus. Likewise, only very limited government resources are allocated
to platypus conservation. The Australian Platypus Conservancy aims to increase
the level of platypus research and develop long-term environmental action
that will both protect existing platypus populations and revitalise degraded
freshwater habitats, thereby encouraging platypus to re-establish in waterways
where they have declined or disappeared.
What is the main focus of Australian Platypus Conservancy research?
The Conservancy links high-quality research with
public education and community involvement. Its research program is directed
by Dr Melody Serena, one of Australia's leading platypus biologists, and
involves studies of platypus population biology and related topics such
as genetics and health.
The APC co-operates with other organisations, including universities,
management agencies, veterinarians and conservation groups.
It works in partnership with various Catchment Management Authorities
and, from 1995 onwards, worked with Melbourne Water to develop the
Melbourne Urban Platypus Program, the first ever survey of platypus in a
city, which examined relationships between platypus numbers and habitat
quality in suburban environments.
APC believes that public support for conservation
is best achieved through immediate experience. The labour-intensive nature
of platypus research provides excellent opportunities for members of the
public to contribute to wildlife conservation through hands-on involvement.
What else does the Australian Platypus Conservancy do?
APC is building awareness of the urgent need to care
for freshwater habitats on the world's driest continent, through its education
program for schools, lecture series, publications, specialist conferences and
community workshops. The Conservancy's work is the focus of considerable
media interest, which both furthers its educational objectives and obtains
recognition for project sponsors and partners.
What is the official status of the Australian Platypus Conservancy?
The Conservancy is a non-government, non-profit organisation,
incorporated in Victoria. APC has been granted tax deductible status by
inclusion on the Commonwealth Register of Environmental Organisations. It has a specialist Advisory Group
which regularly reviews the APC research program.
Who funds the Australian Platypus
Conservancy?
The work of the Conservancy is supported by a variety
of management agencies, philanthropic trusts, corporate sponsors and individuals.
New projects are commenced as resources become available.
The APC also receives a Voluntary Environmental &
Heritage Organisations grant from the Australian Government (Environment
Australia) to assist with administration costs, in recognition of the Conservancy's
special role in platypus conservation.