Merimbula's dugong to be released to Moreton Bay

Media release: 4 February 2016

A dugong that was rescued last month from Merimbula Lake on NSW’s Far South Coast will today be released to Queensland’s Moreton Bay.

Craig Dickmann, Merimbula-based ranger from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said that all involved in the herculean rescue and relocation operation are ecstatic at this outcome.

“We all hoped for this result and to hear that the dugong will be safely released to the warm waters off Queensland is fantastic,” said Mr Dickmann.

A joint operation between NPWS, Sea World and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium saw the successful capture of the 340 kilogram, 2.7metre long male dugong from the Lake on 21 January.

The decision to relocate the animal was taken after veterinarians and marine mammal experts confirmed its condition was deteriorating and on advice that if the dugong stayed in the Lake its outlook was not good.

The dugong was initially relocated to Sea World for rehabilitation under the care of veterinarian teams who treated the animal with antibiotics to improve its skin condition and fed it a diet of sea grass sourced from Moreton Bay.

“Without the rescue the prognosis for this animal was not good,” Mr Dickmann said.

“I’m sure the local community share our sense of joy and relief knowing the dugong is on its way home – albeit after a big adventure,” Mr Dickmann said.

At more than 1,400km from Merimbula, Moreton Bay has a known population of around 1,000 dugongs that enjoy warm waters and suitable sea grass.

“Throughout the joint rescue operation the safety of the crew and the wellbeing of the dugong were the team's highest priority,” said Mr Dickmann.

“NPWS would like to congratulate Sea World on the success of the release and thank SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and ORCCA for their involvement with the rescue.

“Strong support also came from the RAAF, Roads and Maritime Service, NSW Water Police, Fisheries, Bega Valley Shire Council who all worked together to relocate the animal.

“We also thank the Merimbula locals who monitored the dugong during its two month stay at the Lake and for heeding warnings to give the animal space,” Mr Dickmann said.

Prior to the release the dugong was fitted with a neutrally-buoyant satellite transmitter that will hopefully provide valuable information on its movements.

Contact: Sarah Scroope