By Tara Cosoleto in Sydney
Conservation of the endangered Tasmanian Devil is to receive a boost in honour of Crown Princess Mary as she prepares to become Denmark’s queen.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the federal government will provide a $10,000 donation in Mary’s honour to Wildcare Tasmania to support its efforts to ensure the survival of the iconic marsupial.
The gesture follows Tasmania’s gift of a handmade Huon Pine occasional table to Mary and husband Crown Prince Frederik ahead of their proclamation on Sunday.
Princess Mary was born in Hobart and completed her schooling in the state before later meeting Frederik in Sydney during the 2000 Olympics.
Mr Albanese has also extended an official congratulations to the couple on their imminent succession to the throne.
“The story of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark is one Australians have followed closely and hold dear to their hearts,” he said in a statement on Saturday.
“Crown Princess Mary grew up in Tasmania, and so it is fitting Australia marks this occasion with a gift to support the conservation of the Tasmanian devil.
“Australia and Denmark’s close ties go beyond this union, with our nations sharing a commitment to democratic values, human rights, action on climate change and liberal trade.
“On behalf of all Australians, I wish Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark the very best.”
Wildcare Tasmania supports the conservation of wild devil populations through captive breeding and release programs as well as research into disease prevention and cure for the endangered devils.
The organisation’s chief executive Jill Maxwell said it was great that the Tasmanian Devil was being supported on the back of another Tasmanian’s success.
“Princess Mary is known worldwide… and similarly, the Tasmanian Devil is world-renowned,” she told AAP.
“So it’s great that the government is not only recognising the achievement of Princess Mary but also that the Tasmanian Devil needs some support to be here for the future.”
Queen Margrethe II is breaking with centuries of Danish royal tradition in handing over the throne to Frederik and Mary following a 52-year reign.
The Tasmanian government has also made a $10,000 donation to the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, which Mary has been an international patron of since 2005.
The City of Hobart is marking the occasion by planting a blue gum tree in a prominent location.
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