With the threat of the Southern Cassowary becoming an endangered species in the Wet Tropics, there is reason to take comfort in the recent announcement of Mayor Julia Leu becoming Australia’s Cassowary Ambassador.

Newsport has reported extensively over the years on the  plight of this threatened species which plays a vital role in the rainforest regeneration for their role in dispersing rainforest seeds and maintaining biodiversity within their habitat.

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With the continued threat of being hit on the road by fast moving vehicles, as well as dog attacks, whether by domestic canines or dingoes, on defenceless chicks, there has been a wave of opinion throughout the community on this issue.

Everything from dog bans to rocky speed humps have been suggested as ways to limit the risk inflicted on these creatures.  Opinions have been offered as to whether there really is any threat to the declining numbers of this species. It has even been suggested that wild pigs may be the cause of the death of chicks.

With so much community outrage and concern for the Cassowary living in their natural habitat in the Wet Tropics, Mayor Leu said it was a privilege to be named Cassowary Ambassador and she intends to be a strong advocate for them.

“Cassowaries are our most iconic species in the Wet Tropics, but sadly they’re also one of the most vulnerable.

“In my role as Cassowary Ambassador I hope to raise more awareness of their plight as an endangered species and encourage governments of all levels to do more to protect their habitats.  Tragically we are losing far too many cassowaries to vehicle strikes and dog attacks,” said Mayor Leu.

Gregory Andrews, Australia’s first Threatened Species Commissioner will be identifying 20 endangered species to be included in the Threatened Species Recovery Plan.  

With 12 already identified, Mayor Leu hopes to meet with the Threatened Species Commission in Mission Beach on 26 September to discuss having the cassowary recognised as an endangered species.

“If cassowaries are also recognised then it will be a huge boost to attract funding to help protect them,” said Mayor Leu.