Photos: Chris Banks and Jim Thomas 

Zoos Victoria has been actively involved in this conservation program since its need was first recommended in 1998 and chairs the Board of the Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA). In this role, Zoos Victoria plays a key role in guiding the field conservation program.

Melbourne Zoo staff were part of the field team that established the first hunting moratorium, signed by some of the local villages in 1999. The TCA has two staff members in the field responsible for developing and implementing the program.

The program is working with local communities to protect the biodiversity of the Torricelli Mountains, Papua New Guinea, for future generations. Using two tree kangaroo species as flagships, the program takes an integrated approach to conservation, coupling support for community development with conservation outcomes.

When the main program goals are achieved, the Torricelli Mountain Ranges will become a legally protected Conservation Area, ensuring the conservation of their biodiversity into the future.