Blackbutt's popular reptile show will return better than before thanks to offers to donate more than 30 animals to replace the star attractions recently stolen.
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We're enhancing security before accepting the reptilian replacements promised by members of the public after the theft of nine lizards and six snakes over the October long weekend.
New security bars will be installed on doors and windows of the after-hours reptile enclosure - located in a secluded part of the reserve - as well sensors and CCTV.
We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the response from the public and our Blackbutt team is working hard to expedite the return of the wildlife shows.
Despite the great public response, restoring the exhibit is no simple task because only animals with the right temperament can be conditioned to crowds of people.
We will accept many of the offers from the community and buy additional animals to improve our collection before resuming the educational shows in the Christmas school holidays.
While we do appreciate the generous offers to loan out reptiles, it's crucial we carefully select the right ones to ensure they're OK to interact with kids.
The fantastic response is a reminder of how the community prizes the bushland reserve, where council is also building an $1.5 million adventure playground on the Richley Reserve side.