Toad Media

MEDIA RELEASE

20 August 2009

TOAD MUSTERERS GATHER IN THE NORTH; ARMED AND READY

More than 100 volunteers have stepped forward this year in the annual mustering effort to stop the dreaded cane toad from entering Western Australia.

In its biggest gathering in four years, the Stop the Toad Foundation’s Great Cane Toad Muster has attracted participants from around the world who will give their time and energy in the attempt to prevent the noxious pest from entering the tourist and agricultural town of Kununurra, only 40kms from the Northern Territory border.

In another record breaking effort, the Stop the Toad Foundation (STTF) will be endeavoring to net its 150,000th toad during the 4 week long event, to be held from September 12 to October 12.

The STTF has organized and hosted the muster since 2006 and this year will be operating close to Kununurra from several base camps. Volunteers are expected to hunt for toads during the dark hours of the night and participation can include culling, counting and studying the catch.

STTF Campaign Manager Kim Hands admits that the work is tough, but believes volunteers get a great sense of achievement from joining the event.

“The sites where we work are extremely beautiful. It’s a great way to experience the northern landscape of Australia as well as protecting it from this ugly pest. Some of our volunteers come every year because they enjoy it so much. Many have started their annual drive north to join in the battle in September”.

There are no pre-requisites to becoming a Muster volunteer, just a willingness to help and a love for the environment. Volunteers need to get themselves to Kununurra and STTF will do the rest. All food, transport, accommodation and training are provided by the Foundation.

The 2009 Great Toad Muster runs from 12th September until 12th October. If you would like to learn more about becoming a Muster volunteer, come along to an information evening on Monday 24th August at 7pm at City West Lotteries House, West Perth, WA. Alternatively, contact STTF’s Campaign Manager Kim Hands on [email protected] or 0400130397.

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