In 1970 Bob and Lyn Irwin
established what is now the multi-award winning Australia Zoo, which employs
hundreds of people in a wide variety of jobs. Lyn's main dream though was to
build a hospital dedicated solely to Australian native animals. In 2004, after
Lyn's death, their famous son, Steve, with wife Terri, first opened the doors
of the Australia Wildlife Hospital in a disused avocado packing shed behind the
zoo.
Today Queensland's famous
wildlife hospital employs veterinarians, vet nurses, staff and cleaners, and
can take up to 100 emergency calls for injured wildlife daily. In its first 10
years 50,000 animals covering 500 different species, most victims of cars and
domestic pets, had been treated at the hospital. From the largest kangaroo to
the smallest newborn bat, the policy is that nothing is too big, too small, or
too commonplace for specialist treatment and care.
With treatment of just one
animal costing between $400 to over $1000, this alone shows the incredible
effort going into helping our native wildlife. However the hospital is also
involved in research into animal diseases, migratory patterns, quarantine and
management of diseased animals, and specialises in koala care. With each koala
costing up to $5000, and 70 koalas on average admitted monthly, this takes the
value of this first class facility to an astonishing level. The fact that it
relies heavily on the generosity of the public to keep operating only further
seals its position as a true giant in wildlife care.
Besides all this, a rescue
unit based at the hospital works around the clock collecting sick, injured and
orphaned native animals, further ensuring them quick and professional
attention. And at the end of their time in care a series of beautiful
rainforest enclosures makes sure each animal is well prepared for return to its
natural environment.
This hospital is indeed an
amazing place. Any young person with a passion for animals is advised to keep
on eye on their website, where lists of jobs and posts of positions vacant are
regularly updated.
-
P Edwards
This post was originally published in the "Voices for the Earth" column in The Daily Examiner on April 27.
