Oolong Sanctuary Newsletters Number 3

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Newsletter 3

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WELCOME TO THE OOLONG SANCTUARY NEWS!

June-September 2002

Dear Friends,

These are very hectic times for us. I am still searching for a major sponsor but I have secured, after protracted negotiations, the cooperation of AGILITY, one of the companies responsible for the maintenance of the pipeline route, through our sanctuary. They have agreed to re-landscape the area, clear it from the weed infestation and to Hydro Mulch spray it with native grasses to our specification. It is about one hectare of the corridor and the seed would supply feed for the numerous declining bird species, which populate the area.

There are 31 projects covering all aspects of farm conservation. However we have received a set back with the declaration by the local Landcare Coordinator that we do not fit the government criteria to receive any funds. We hope that a government investigation will follow this incredible statement and my reaction, as a landholder, expressed on an interview by the ABC Rural Online. However to take care of the on-going projects, we must resort to private funds, supporting individuals and groups as well as philanthropic organizations and trusts.

Our patron, Dr Suzuki is back at work and will soon issue another statement in support of work of vital fauna and flora recovery. Our extensive and fully illustrated bird list is a testimonial to this effect. I am very pleased to announce that Andrew Wynberg has accepted to join the team and continue to work actively on the committee if elected. As you are aware all other positions on the committee become vacant at the coming AGM however we do have a commitment from Kay Fredericks to continue her support and strong interest from other members.

Our membership numbers seventy and the list of active members is slowly growing with the addition to our committee of Annette Barbaris from Rye Park and Leanda O'Connor from Yass.The list of Supporters and Sponsors is growing - consider adding your name to it with a one off donation.

We have applied for entry in the Register of Environmental Organisations and, by satisfying the requirement by Environment Australia, we will be able to qualify as Deductible Gift Recipient and as an Income Tax Exempt Charity. We have been instructed to have a special General Meeting to alter our constitution and make some additions to it for the management by a subcommittee of a Fund, which is to be separated from other association funds. A special General Meeting followed by our first Annual General Meeting will be held in October at the Sanctuary to pass the needed amendments and select the committee for the coming twelve months. I invite you to come and share your ideas and commitment to our precious environment.

Regards,

Dr. Gianni William D'Addario,
President, Friends of Oolong Inc.