By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
ATTENDING a global animal rights event in Melbourne on Friday night, Donalea Patman had every right to be proud.
The Olinda resident has worked tirelessly with MP for La Trobe Jason Wood to ban ‘trophy hunters’ from bringing back pieces of hunted endangered animals to Australia.
Appearing via video link, Minister for Environment Greg Hunt announced that the importation of all lion parts into Australia is now banned.
Mr Wood said it was a pleasing result after a long campaign.
“I am proud to say that Australia is taking the historic step of banning the imports of lion trophies,” Mr Wood said.
“The practice of canned hunting is completely unacceptable, and I would like to thank the concered and persistent constituent of La Trobe – Donalea Patman – for bringing the issue to our attention.”
Internationally respected conservationist Ian Michler also spoke at the event, appearing on the big screen through a live cross to South Africa. A significant crowd enjoyed entertainment from African Musicians and dancers.
Mr Wood also took the opportunity to encourage other countries to adopt a similar approach.
“Australia has taken the first step. Now let’s hope the rest of the world follows suit and says ‘no’ to canned hunting,” he said.
