On the night of September 7, 1936, the last Tasmanian tiger died in Hobart Zoo.
With the death of this animal the thylacine species became extinct.
In 1996, on the sixtieth anniversary of the last Tasmanian tiger’s death, September 7 was declared National Threatened Species Day — a time to reflect on what happened to the thylacine and how similar fates could await other native plants and animals unless appropriate action is taken.
Potoroo Palace is a permanent home for many of Australia’s listed threatened species and staff will again be collaborating with the Office of Environment and Heritage’s representative, Debbie Hunt, to highlight the importance of this day.
“It is a day with great significance for Potoroo Palace,” Palace director and coordinator of the event Lea Pinker said.
“Deb provided us with invaluable support for this event last year, and we are really appreciative to be working with her again this year, helping to promote more public awareness.
“Staff are preparing for an eventful day of activities to be held on Saturday, September 2.
“This will mean whole families can come along with the added bonus of discounted entry fees on all family tickets.”
The National Threatened Species Day event at Potoroo Palace will include the regular educational talks, but with an emphasis on threatened species and efforts to aid their protection.
There will also be presentations, face painting, live music from local musicians, and a few other surprises.
Native flora is also included among the threatened species listings and there are plans for a guided bush tucker walk on the day.
“The continuing loss of biodiversity in Australia impacts upon all of us and on future generations,” Ms Pinker said.
“By supporting events happening in recognition of National Threatened Species Day, we can all do something to acknowledge and contribute to the protection of our unique flora and fauna.”
Save our Species
According to the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Australia is home to more than 500,000 animal and plant species.
Over the last 200 years, more than 100 animal and plant species have become extinct. In NSW alone there are close to 1000 animal and plant species at risk of extinction.
Threatened Species Day turns the spotlight on native plants, animals, and ecosystems that are under threat.
The day also celebrates the amazing work that is being done to save them by passionate conservationists, researchers, volunteers, and community experts.