Our stunning Cooloola Coast is home to an incredible array of native neighbours—from the iconic kangaroos grazing at dusk to the vibrant birdlife that fills our mornings with song. But sometimes, these wild residents find themselves in trouble. Whether it’s a joey orphaned by a roadside accident or a sea bird tangled in fishing line, their survival often depends on the quick thinking of a local hero.
If you would like to be that hero, here’s an opportunity to take the first step towards making a difference.
On Sunday, 31 May, ANARRA (Australian Native Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Association) is hosting a vital double-feature workshop in Rainbow Beach. If you’ve ever wanted to help but didn’t know where to start, this is your gateway to becoming a wildlife rescuer and carer.
The day is split into two essential sessions designed to take you from being a curious observer to a confident responder:
- Orientation Workshop: This is the “must-have” foundation. You will learn the legalities of wildlife rescue, including licensing requirements, and the Code of Practice for rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing our native fauna.
- Primary Care of Wildlife: Once the basics are covered, the session will dive into the hands-on essentials, covering:
- Basic assessment of rescued animals.
- Immediate first care and life-saving treatments.
- Ongoing health management.
- Criteria for assessing when an animal is ready to return to the wild.
Cost is FREE for ANARRA members or $20 for non-members. ANARRA membership costs $30 per person or $40 for a family per financial year. Numbers are limited so bookings are essential.
More Ways to Help
Not everyone is in a position to care for wildlife in their home, and that’s okay! ANARRA is always looking for more volunteers to keep the wheels turning:
- Rescuers & Transporters: Help sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife get to a vet or carer.
- Hotline Heroes: Volunteer from the comfort of your own home by handling the group’s 24-hour emergency hotline. Full training is provided. This is an excellent way to learn about our precious native wildlife and be part of a growing band of dedicated rescuers and carers.
Ready to join the rescue family? To register for the workshop or for more information, please email anarrawildlife@gmail.com with your contact details.
Whether you want to actively participate with rescues or caring for wildlife or contribute just a few hours a week to answer the phone, your support helps the Cooloola Coast remain a safe haven for the creatures that make our region so special. ANARRA hope to see you there!
Article contributed by Deb Seal, ANARRA
FINIA 