People keen to help injured native wildlife are about to get a great chance to do just that.
A wildlife rescuers’ and transporters’ course delivered through Wildlife Victoria is coming up next month and Mount Alexander and Macedon Ranges locals are being encouraged to take part.
“We’re desperately short of rescuers and transporters in our area,” says longtime wildlife rescuer, Maldon’s Ian Slattery.
He will be among the experienced wildlife rescuers who will share practical insights into what these vital volunteer roles entail.
“It’s challenging but highly rewarding,” Ian says.
“It’s a real opportunity for people to make a difference.
“This is for people who have a genuine interest in becoming a rescuer or transporter.
“One important point to make is that if people want to start rescuing they’ll have a lot of support from existing rescuers in the region.
“You start the real learning in the field and there are people there to help you on the ground.
“We also need people who are able to transport animals to vets, shelters or carers once they have been rescued.”
Set for Saturday August 14 at Bendigo Neighbourhood Hub in Strathdale, the day-long course will cover rescue techniques for species common in the region.
Nikki Medwell of Elphinstone’s Red Box Wildlife Shelter says too often people really want to help injured wildlife but don’t have the confidence to act on their compassion.
“This course aims to empower the public to be a first responder for our wildlife” she says.
Bookings are required as places are limited with registrations able to be made at www.wildlifevictoria.org.au/rescue-and-transport-training-registration and the course fee used to cover costs.
