Visitors support Aussie Ark release 20 Long-nosed potoroos into Barrington Wildlife Sanctuary

With the help of over 30 donors, partners, supporters and community members, conservation organisation Aussie Ark has released 20 Long-nosed potoroos into the Barrington Wildlife Sanctuary.

Managing Directors Tim Faulkner and Liz Gabriel were thrilled with the big turnout of supporters with Gabriel sharing the highlight for her was “seeing kids fall in love with the Long-nosed potoroo,” adding “It was so special to see people engage with this species and learn about them. Most Australians don’t have any idea what they are.”

Aussie Ark is a world leader in breeding and rewilding threatened and endangered species with the Long-nosed potoroo one of the organisation’s signature species. All of the potoroos released were born and bred at the Ark. The species has been decimated in the wild by feral predators, land clearing and bushfire.

Faulkner said its role as an ‘ecosystem terrestrial engineer’ is critical for the health of the Australian bush, with their foraging helping oxygenate and moisturise the soil, aid in decomposition, and reduce fuel load, thereby reducing the instance and severity of fire.

Faulkner noted “It’s said we’re tipping into another El Nino cycle. And that can lead to years of drought and fire, so the work of potoroos in forests is critical.”

Aussie Ark has one of the world’s most important ‘insurance populations’ of the species, safeguarded in its 400-hectare feral-proof Sanctuary.

It was in this idyllic setting that over 30 visitors gathered to help release the potoroos. Guests reported feeling “tearful” and “inspired” as they witnessed the iconic marsupials disappear one by one into the bush to enjoy a life as free and safe as any potoroo could dream of.

To help Aussie Ark continue its vital conservation work with the Long-nosed potoroos, please donate now at aussieark.org.au.