MEDIA RELEASE: 9 JUNE 2020
VALE CALAMITY: ANOTHER DOLPHIN DIES IN CAPTIVITY IN NSW
Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Calamity, the oldest dolphin held at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in New South Wales.
Calamity leaves behind her two children, Bella and Jet. Their father, Bucky, died in captivity less than one year ago.
“Two dolphins have died in captivity in Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in the past twelve months, with just three dolphins remaining at the facility. These are the last three dolphins in captivity in New South Wales,” said Ms Hurst.
“Dolphinariums are an outdated industry which is no longer supported by the community. Australians care deeply about animals and they don’t want to see dolphins forced to perform for human entertainment and live in artificial pools.
“Calamity’s children were born in captivity and, unless the Government takes action, they will die there.
“It's time for a legislated ban on breeding dolphins for entertainment, and a commitment to retire the remaining three dolphins at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park to a sea pen sanctuary.
“It is the least we can do to honour Calamity’s legacy, and give her children a better life.
“No animal should have to spend their life being held captive and forced to perform humiliating tricks for a dwindling number of spectators. It’s time to empty the tanks,” said Ms Hurst.
MEDIA CONTACT: ROSINA RAYNS, 0401 991 792