Shining World Award Recipients: Vigilante Angels of the Penguins on Middle Island, Part 1 of 2

In our 2-part series, we are delighted to tell you the story of the Middle Island Maremma Project and their two guardian dogs, Tula and Eudy. Today, we will learn about the Project, and the teams’ loving endeavors of conserving the penguin population in the famous Island tourist attraction. We are lucky to have Dr. Anne Wallis, Chairperson, and Professor Rob Wallis, Finance Officer, share some information about their organization.

“The Middle Island Project group is composed of representatives of a number of organizations, and they include the Warrnambool City Council, the Warrnambool Coastcare, Landcare Network, Deakin University, the Warrnambool Field Naturalist Club, and together we oversee the operationalization of this project.”

“So, our work with the Maremma dogs to protect the penguins is a world first and has been used too as an example of what's called compassionate conservation, in which non-lethal methods are used to control the foxes.”

So instead of poisoning them or shooting them, we use a deterrent. Dr. Patricia Corbett, the Project’s Coordinator, shared with us about the Maremmas, a breed of guardian dog they train to protect the penguins from foxes. Thanks to those brave and responsible canine friends, the penguin population in Warrnambool has risen from less than 10 to almost 200.

Upon learning of this wonderful organization, Supreme Master Ching Hai: “Thankfully present the Shining World Leadership Award for Caring with US$30,000 for the Middle Island Maremma Project’s continuing preserving effort, with all love in God’s mercy. May all involved stay forever under Heaven’s loving watch.”