Toad Media

MEDIA RELEASE

3 September 2010

TOAD MUSTERERS GATHER IN THE NORTH; ARMED AND READY

Every year, WA’s Stop the Toad Foundation (STTF) holds the Great Toad Muster in an effort to reduce the number of toads entering WA. More than 120 volunteers have stepped forward this year to join the unique event.

In its biggest gathering in five years, the Muster has attracted participants from around the world who will give their time and energy to controlling the noxious pest in areas around the tourist and agricultural town of Kununurra.

In another record breaking effort, STTF will be endeavoring to net its 200,000th toad during the 4 week long event, to be held from 11th September to 11th October.

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.

This year we will be focusing on protecting areas of high significance, including Keep River National Park, Point Springs Nature Reserve and Lake Argyle, all close to Kununurra”.

STTF uses toad proof fences to help catch and remove the toads. Fences are erected around water bodies during the day time. When toads come out to rehydrate and feed at night, they are blocked by the fence and easily picked up by teams of volunteers.

“We have been using this method in the field for the past three years and found it to be very successful. It can also be used in a domestic setting around your property or pool area. There are local residents in Kununurra that currently use it to protect their pets and native wildlife on their property”.

As part of the 2010 Muster, STTF will be running a community workshop in Kununurra about how to create a toad proof fence around your property and pool area. It will be held at the Kununurra Country Club Resort on September 26th from 10am-1pm. A free BBQ will be provided and everyone is encouraged to come along.

The 2010 Muster is largely supported by the Federal Government’s Caring for our Country grants scheme and also by the Western Australian ABN Foundation.

For more information contact STTF’s Campaign Manager Kim Hands on [email protected] or 0400 130 397.

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