Despite COVID curtailing our activities somewhat, the Executive Committee has used our down time quite productively, getting our photos transferred to Google Drive to make them more accessible (Tanya), regular Facebook and Instagram posts (Claire) and work on a new website (Media on Mars and committee members). We have also updated and reprinted various promotional items, our brochure, and the newsletter, Tortoise Tales.
Many of the fairs, fetes and display activities we normally participate in were cancelled, but we managed to squeeze in the Wetlands Conference in February, meetings in March and May and a Recovery Team meeting via Zoom.
Our school visits paused, and will be minimal this year, although a few hardy souls have requested a presentation.
We did not have a local release of captive bred hatchlings this year, as many are being held over at the Zoo to increase their bodyweight for a release down south in 2021.
The Friends group teamed up with several 4 wheel drive groups under the TrackCare umbrella, and planted 5000 seedlings in the new area of Ellen Brook Nature Reserve. It has rained quite well since then, and the plants are looking very healthy.
Donations
Jo Perry from Dormalina Winery has donated $1 from every bottle of Yokel wine sold this year, and we are very appreciative of the support. She is moving to a new venue in Margaret River with a cellar door, so we’ll be sure to pass on the directions so those travelling in the area can pop in.
Margaret River Chocolate Factory donations have been directed towards finalising payment for the sculpture in their grounds. We have had many complimentary comments on this initiative.
Over 1000 volunteer hours have again been recorded at DBCA by Friends of the Western Swamp Tortoise group.
ONCE AGAIN A GIANT THANKS TO OUR TEAM FOR HELPING RAISE THE PROFILE OF THE WESTERN SWAMP TORTOISE.
