The five wallabies will join a group of seven Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies that were released into the Grampians National Park late last year.

DSE Group Manager for Biodiversity Services Grant Hull said the wallabies are being released with an aim of creating a second wild population of Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies within Victoria.

“We are hoping to reach a total of 28 animals in the Grampians National Park over the next six years to establish a new wild population, in addition to the existing colony of 15 animals in remote East Gippsland,” he said. “This will be a significant step in securing the future survival of the species.”

The Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby was once found across rocky gorges in south-eastern Australia. Its decline is largely due to historical hunting for the fur trade, habitat clearing and predation from the red fox.

The release site chosen within its former habitat of the Grampians National Park provides excellent conditions, including rocky ledges, cliffs and plentiful food that is essential to the survival of the species.

Mr Hull said Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies are regularly monitored in the park using radio collars and remote surveillance cameras.

“The reintroduction program is very much on track, despite an early loss of three animals. The animals we have trapped are healthy and in good condition,” he said.

All Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies released are carefully selected for age and genetic diversity. Three males and two females are being released today.

Potential predators such as the red fox are continuing to be monitored and controlled by Parks Victoria.

Mr Hull said preparations carried out before the wallabies are released include regular health checks.

“Before release the animals live in large predator proof enclosures that mimic wild conditions, allowing them to be monitored, acclimatise to living in the wild and to adjust socially,” he said.

The Grampians Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby recovery program involves the Department of Sustainability and Environment, Parks Victoria, Adelaide Zoo and other partner organisations and has also been significantly supported by sponsor donations.

The animals released today were bred at the Adelaide Zoo and the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve in the ACT.