Put it down to Facebook. A post made Lucille Moore aware of the plight threatening the existence of one African species.
“I saw a Facebook post on rhinos” the young conservationist said. “And I wanted to do something to help. I have always liked rhinos and elephants.”
With more than 4000 rhinos poached in South Africa since 2010, Lucille set her mind to raising money for the endangered animal. Her first fundraiser on an Instagram account raised $300 by selling homemade bath bombs, scrubs and bookmarks to friends and family. She has also taken part in Pub 2 Pub and had craft stalls at Warringah community markets. Her efforts have raised $1000 which she donated to The Australian Rhino Project.
The organisation aims to fly 90 African rhinos from South Africa to Australia and establish a population so the species survives. Lucille’s contribution has secured a position as a rhino guardian. The Australian Rhino Project founder Ray Dearlove said it was support from fundraisers such as Lucille that would ensure future generations would still be able to see rhinos in their natural habitat.
“Lucille is a passionate and determined young lady who we are proud to have in our team of rhino guardians,” he said. “The Australian Rhino Project is building an insurance population of rhinos in Australia so that future generations will be able to view rhinos in the wild.”
The Year 9 student from St Luke’s Grammar school will share her conservation message at school next week.
“Dad and I are training for a half marathon in May and we’re looking for sponsors,” she said.
