SYKES –– TELLS PARLIAMENT ABOUT GABBY’S WORK WITH THE WILDLIFE

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, told Parliament this week about the wonderful work being done to care for injured wildlife in the Mansfield area, by Gabby Mehegan and her partner Rick.

Dr Sykes was speaking in support of the Primary Industries Act (Amendment) Bill and the pleasing aspects in regards to the improvement of animal welfare. Dr Sykes asked the Government to go further when it comes to animal welfare and to support small local initiatives to make a difference, such as the efforts of Gabby and Rick.

Dr Sykes said that The Nationals supported the Bill because it would improve our ability to protect the welfare and wellbeing of animals and drew the attention of the Government to the issue of wildlife injured on roads.

“In our area a number of people assist these animals… in particular Gabby Mehegan and her partner Rick spend every last cent they have assisting injured wild life in the Mansfield area. Unfortunately their support is rather limited. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals gives them very limited financial support and the local council, due to funding constraints, is withdrawing its similar service in the area.

“I would ask the Minister, in his consideration of the broader issues of animal welfare, to favourably consider the possibility of supporting Gabby and Rick so they can continue their fantastic work with our injured wildlife.

Dr Sykes concluded, “I am a strong believer in the power of community spirit and the work of volunteers never ceases to amaze me. It is vitally important that Government supports such efforts wherever possible. Gabby and Rick are achieving just the kinds of things that makes me proud to be a member of a country community and a representative of the Benalla Electorate.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989