Web Site Condemns Gardens of Death. 18th April 2001. Allen McIlwee

A new web site will be launched tomorrow to give members of the public in Australia and overseas more information about the slaughter of flying-foxes in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens (MBG).

The site's author, Mr Allen McIlwee, said he was so outraged by the deaths he had to do something to help. "There has been strong opposition from scientists all along" he said. "The killing is cruel and will achieve nothing."

Mr McIlwee said the web site is the result of a collaborative effort by flying-fox researchers and wildlife carers. "Scientists want to work with the MBG develop solutions that will ensure the long-term protection of both bats and trees, but the Gardens Management refuses to listen".

Mr McIlwee believes there are many things that could have done to mitigate the damage to plants and improve the amenities of the MBG. These are outlined on the web site along with a number of practical solutions to the problem.

Mr McIlwee says the site is dedicated to a wonderfully intelligent and charismatic baby black flying-fox called Romeo, an orphan who was rescued 3 months ago from its dead mother.

The site also features many superb photos by famous photographer Vivien Jones, a myths and facts section, collections of scientific reports and papers, and links to the most up to date media releases. The address for the web site is http://austrop.org.au/ghff

For further information, Mr McIlwee can be contacted on Ph 07 47814171 or 07 47257185