Story and pictures by Alistair Gray
Everyone enjoyed checking out the many exhibits at the recent Wildlife Expo
There was a buzz of excitement as the kids, mums and dads enjoyed visiting the recent Wildlife Expo here on Bribie.
It was an excellent opportunity for Bribie locals to learn a little about what Wildlife Rescue QLD does and to meet and chat with some of their carers. I sat down a few days later with well-known local warrior, Colleen Ogilvie to learn more.
Colleen, the group’s membership co-ordinator was excited at the tremendous success of the expo where 12 new members were recruited, commencing their education, training and induction this week.
They are continually looking for volunteers who have a passion, desire and goal to care for the animals and be actively involved in the various programs Wildlife Rescue offers. Some of the workshops offered include learning to care for birds and brush tailed possums and sessions to learn about macropods (kangaroos and wallabies), with specialist days on ‘pinkies’ and babies' care.
Every animal taken into care is transported to the Australia Zoo wildlife hospital for assessment, diagnosis and to determine the appropriate care procedure depending on the animal's needs. Animals are carefully monitored and looked after to ensure they have the best chance of survival. Sadly, some animals who are beyond help are euthanised. One of the hardest things the rescue team must deal with is kangaroos, often severely injured and in extreme pain hit by a motor vehicle. They have a specially trained team available in these situations as injured kangaroos can be very dangerous, particularly to members of the public unfamiliar with how to handle them.
Colleen also spoke about the problem of unleashed dogs chasing kangaroos and wallabies at Red Beach. You may think this is harmless however the animal will often suffer from myopathy (severe anxiety) and as a result, can die within three weeks because of the trauma. As it is not uncommon to find a stray kangaroo or two in our local streets, Bribie dog owners should be aware of this fact.
Wildlife Rescue does some fantastic work. The morning after the Expo, the rescue service received a call from Aquaculture, the research facility in Woorim, requesting assistance as they had a wallaby caught in one of their empty tanks. Hayden, from Wildlife Rescue successfully caught and carefully released the wallaby into the nearby bushland. However, as he walked around, he discovered a wallaby swimming in another tank. Thankfully he was able to save and release this one too. Discussions were held with Aquaculture staff to further prevent similar occurrences in the future. A great outcome!
How can you help?
Wildlife Rescue QLD needs-
People to help with the transport roster – twice daily injured animals are transported between Bribie Island and the Australia Zoo Wildlife hospital for initial assessment, diagnosis and development of care plans.
Hotline Operators – to answer calls and handle enquires.
No experience is necessary with full training and support provided. These roles are very rewarding and may suit people who want to help but don't want to care directly for injured animals. Call operators can work from home and may suit someone in a wheelchair.
For more information –
Please call Moreton Bay region 24-hour hotline on 0478 901 801
Visit www.wrq.org.au
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