A marine park which has welcomed visitors for over 50 years could be facing closure.
Dolphin Marine Conservation Park and Dolphin Marine Rescue north of Sydney in Coffs Harbour, NSW, said it needs “urgent support” to keep running.
The park, which opened in 1970, has appointed administrators and has launched a community appeal to raise money it said on its website.
It blamed COVID-19, floods and fires as well as interest rates for a drop in business and a rise in running costs.
Managing Director Terry Goodall said in a statement he’s asked local, state and federal governments for financial help, but hasn’t received any.
“By going public, we hope the government will see that we’re at serious risk of closing the marine conservation park and marine wildlife rescue facility and offer support to get us through this tough period,” Goodall said.
The park, which offers experiences including swimming with dolphins, said it’s the only place of its kind in the state and is also unique to Australia.
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“Dolphin Marine Rescue is the only specialist marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility on the NSW coast,” it says.
“It is the only facility licensed and qualified to rescue and rehabilitate seals on the east coast of Australia.
“If the park has to close, the impact on marine wildlife and animals in our care will be devastating.”
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