Minister for Environment and Heritage, Mick Gentleman has put his weight behind a plea for more volunteers from ACT Wildlife, a volunteer group that cares for injured, sick and orphaned native animals.
“ACT Wildlife does a fantastic job at rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing native wildlife, but due to an increasing number of animals coming into its care, there is a real need for more volunteers,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Canberrans willing to care for injured wallabies, nurse native birds back to health, or take care of sick wombats are being urged to become an ACT Wildlife volunteer.”
He said specialised training would be provided for whatever avenue volunteers decided to pursue.
“For example, those not able to deliver hands-on care, but who still wish to help, can become a telephone operator or animal transporter; these roles are vitally important and it all adds to the overall success of ACT Wildlife,” Mr Gentleman said.
“In the last year alone over 1,000 native animals were rescued and rehabilitated and this is due to the dedication of the volunteers as well as the professional training that ensures a high standard of animal care.”
To become an ACT Wildlife volunteer, visit www.actwildlife.net or RSVP to the training courses at this PS News link.
Anyone who comes across an injured, sick or orphaned native animal are advised to handle it gently, keep it warm in a box, cover it with a towel or cloth and call ACT Wildlife on 0432 300 033.
For injured kangaroos, contact Access Canberra on 13 22 81.
