The Australian Reptile Park is proud to announce the completion of the ground breaking of its new venom milking facility by Adam Crouch MP. The facility will produce life-saving antivenom from terrestrial snakes’ venom and is estimated to save 300 lives per year. The park is the only facility in Australia to milk terrestrial snakes’ venom to make antivenom.
The new facility will allow visitors to witness the venom milking process firsthand, as well as interactive and informative exhibits. This immersive experience is a testament to the park’s commitment to saving lives, and its role in contributing to the local economy through tourism.
“We are thrilled to have Adam Crouch MP complete the ground breaking of this historic project,” said Tim Faulkner, Director of Australian Reptile Park. “The new facility will allow us to produce even more life-saving antivenom, while also providing visitors with an engaging and educational experience. It’s amazing to think that the venom of these creatures, which can be so deadly, can also be the key to their own treatment.”
The project was made possible thanks to a $300,000 grant from NSW Health and the Liberal Government. The new facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2023, and the Australian Reptile Park is excited to welcome visitors to witness the venom milking process firsthand and learn about the importance of antivenom in treating snake bites.
Mr Faulkner continued “The Australian Reptile Park’s antivenom has been saving Australian lives since the 1960s, this is compliments to the Australian Government over the years by making the administering of antivenom free in Australia. The Australian Reptile Park is the jewel of the Central Coast and support from Adam Crouch MP over the last decade has not only benefitted the Reptile Park, but community and region.”
Adding to Mr Faulkner’s comments, State Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch MP said the new Venom Precinct will allow for upgraded safety, animal welfare, biosecurity, and equipment integrity, while also helping to educate the community about venom production.
“The Australian Reptile Park do fantastic work with their antivenom program, saving approximately 300 Australian lives per year. The vital work being done by the Australian Reptile Park as the sole supplier of venom to the commonwealth serum laboratories, helps save lives right across our nation and I am delighted that the State Government is providing funding for this life saving project,”” Mr Crouch said.
Mr Crouch continued “In addition to providing a lifesaving community service the Australian Reptile Park is known as a multi award winning wildlife tourism operator. Providing vital jobs to Central Coast locals and attracting over 300,000 visitors to our region.”
