Small acts of heroism saved many animals lives during the 2020 Australian bushfires. In partnership with WIRES we've directly helped animals like Obi the wombat to survive and recover from one of the most intense blazes in Australian history.
About the Project
In partnership with the NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service we constructed a wombat rescue and rehabilitation pen in the Hawkesbury area providing immediate shelter and safety to animals affected by the bushfires.
The Issue
Millions of hectares were lost during the bushfires with a tragic impact on wildlife and flora. Among the destruction, the efforts of volunteer firefighters, residents and animal rescuers have stood out, with small acts of heroism that have saved many animal lives.
Obi was rescued from one of the most intense blazes to hit the state. The 6-month-old wombat joey suffered burns on his back and two injured legs requiring surgery. His story typifies the plight of thousands of wildlife affected by the bushfires.
The Solution
A wombat rescue and rehabilitation pen provided rescued wombat joeys with an important stage in their growth and is crucial to their successful release back into the wild. Wombats are protective native Australian animals with some species like the Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat are endangered in NSW.
Obi will remain in care for 12 months undergoing daily physio before being released back into the wild should he fully recover.
The Impact
- Construction of a wombat rescue and rehabilitation pen for wildlife carer Julie in the Hawkesbury area.
WIRES (NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service) is Australia’s largest wildlife rescue organisation. Dedicated to the protection and preservation of native animals, WIRES have provided wildlife information and education to the community nationally for the past 30 years and played a critical role in the rescue and care for wildlife during the bushfires.
Tasmanian Walking Company Fund contributed over $100000 to support Australian bushfire response and recovery.
Find out More
100% of your donations go directly to our projects. All administrative costs are paid for by the Tasmanian Walking Company and Australian Walking Company.
