In the Media 2005

Injured Wildlife Saved by Team

News Source: Revive Magazine, Sunshine Coast Daily, November 12 2005
By: Caroline Tucker

Thousands of native animals are given a second chance at life by the dedicated workers at the Australian Wildlife Hospital.

When the Australian Wildlife Hospital opened adjacent to Australia Zoo in March last year, the staff were expecting to see between 500 and 1000 sick, orphaned and injured animals in their first 12 months.

Instead, almost 3000 animals were brought through the door.

This dedicated team of veterinarians, vet nurses, administration staff and volunteers is giving Sunshine Coast wildlife a chance to survive – often from traumatic injuries - before releasing the animals back into the wild.

The hospital began as a tribute to the original co-owner of Australia Zoo, Lyn Irwin, who was a pioneer in koala care, and to date the Zoo has covered about 95% of the cost.

“This is really an example of people putting their money where their heart is,” said hospital general manager Michael Hornby.

“It was opened with the best intentions knowing there was no other service of this kind.

“The survival of these animals previously depended on well-meaning local vets and carers.”

While the hospital also receives some help from medical suppliers, the enormous and growing demand for their service is straining their limited resources.

“The majority of our cases are trauma cases with injuries caused by cars or dogs, and the costs associated with treating those cases are very high,” Michael said.

“As time goes by more animals will be referred to us and we need to increase support from the community, so we will be embarking on a campaign to generate corporate and public support.”

Michael said their service, caring for and rehabilitating the region’s native animals, was unique, and the outcomes have been overwhelmingly positive.

“Our team is very passionate and go to extreme lengths to give these animals a chance but at times we have to make those hard, pragmatic decisions,” he said.

“Extra funds will mean more animals can be saved.”