Media Release Media Release Media Release

25th July 2006

Glenorchy Council Circus Ban Push Supported!

Against Animal Cruelty Tasmania (AACT) which has led community protests ban on animal circuses in Tasmania today welcomed the decision of the Glenorchy City Council to call for a State-wide ban on animal circuses.

AACT Circus Campaign Co-ordinator , Benedict Bartl stated:

“AACT, the RSPCA and now the Glenorchy City Council are calling for a State-wide ban on the use of exotic animals in circuses. The State Government, which is currently in the process of reviewing the Animal Welfare Act must act on community pressure and ban those circuses that continue to use exotic animals.”

Over the coming weeks AACT is hopeful of organising a meeting with the Local Government Association of Tasmania at which it will encourage them to support the GCC and its call for a State-wide ban. The community pressure has followed the recent visit of Stardust Circus which brought 2 elephants, 5 lions and several monkeys to shows in both Launceston and Hobart. AACT held a number of protests both outside the GCC Council Chambers and the at the circus venues in Hobart and Launceston.

Benedict Bartl concluded:

“The Tasmanian Government should follow the lead of the Australian Capital Territory and more than 35 councils around Australia which have collectively held that the use of exotic animals in circuses is archaic, barbaric and unacceptable. “

For further Information: AACT Circus Campaign Spokesperson,
Benedict, mob. 0417 032 832