- New quokka monitoring program established
- Partnership with local business to bring Chokka to Rottnest Island
Work is underway on Rottnest Island to establish a new monitoring program for the world's happiest animal, the quokka.
Research conducted in collaboration with The University of Western Australia over a three-year period, identified benchmarks and sustainable management practices for the quokka.
The Rottnest Island Authority is now taking this work further by establishing a long-term Quokka Monitoring Program with consideration for wider community science volunteering opportunities.
Money raised through sales of The Margaret River Chocolate Company's Chokka the Quokka will help fund the new monitoring program due to start in spring.
Since 2017, the Chokka the Quokka initiative has helped raise more than $10,000 with $2 from every sale donated to the Rottnest Foundation for quokka conservation.
In addition, for the first time, Chokka the Quokka will be available to buy on Rottnest Island, just in time for Easter.
For more information, visit http://www.chocolatefactory.com.au/quokka
Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
"The quokka selfie has made it one of the most recognisable marsupials in the world, and we need to work together with the community to protect the future of our uniquely local quokka.
"Chokka the Quokka will be available on the Island for the first time ever, in addition to The Margaret River Chocolate Company's Margaret River, Swan Valley and Perth locations.
"A chocolate quokka makes an ideal Easter gift and is a great ambassador for promoting the environmental values of Rottnest Island."
Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The quokka is such an important part of the character of Rottnest Island, but is a vulnerable species that we need to protect.
"Comprehensive monitoring will play a greater role in ensuring the future wellbeing of the quokkas on the Island.
"I want to see more people get involved in conservation, and initiatives like this are a great way for the community to make a personal contribution to protect our quokkas."
Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5600
Environment Minister's office - 6552 5800
