Help Tasmania's wildlife in your spare time - become a Wildlife Rescuer today!
This event will be held in Queenstown, Tasmania. Please go back to our full listing for other locations.
Did you know Bonorong operates Tasmania’s largest 24-hour wildlife rescue service? This program provides safety and care to thousands of animals every year - and we need your help.
We operate with the assistance of trained community rescuers and the devotion of hundreds of wildlife carers, all of whom donate considerable time, money and energy to helping wildlife in need.
If you're interested in being a Wildlife Rescuer in your spare time, then you're invited to our free Wildlife Rescuer Training.
There is absolutely no obligation to sign uo to our rescue service afterwards, and you'll come away with skills that you can use in the event of a wildlife emergency.
This is also the first step if you're interested in learning about becoming a wildlife carer, transporter - or more.
What will I learn?
You'll learn the basics of wildlife rescue, including:
- - How to safely handle injured animals
- - How to check a pouch for babies
- - How to identify the most common animals you'll come across
- - How to create your own rescue kit to keep in the car
- - and more.
The sessions run for approximately 5 hours and are absolutely free.
Children are welcome but please be aware we do cover some sensitive topics including euthanasia. Young children do make pretty perfect helpers in many situations, so don't be deterred!
Please note: this program does not involve the raising of wildlife. However, we can arrange training for those interested in becoming a wildlife carer.
What do I need to bring?
Great question! You should bring:
- - A notepad
- - A pen
- - Warm clothes (if it's a chilly day or any time in winter!)
- - Something to drink and eat for afternoon tea
Where is the training held?
Queenstown Memorial Hall - 53 Orr Street, Queenstown!
What's involved in being a wildlife rescuer?
As a Wildlife Rescuer, you'll be put on our database to receive SMS messages when an animal needs help in your area.
If you're available - great! Respond to us so we can coordinate the rescue.
If you're not available - no worries. Just ignore the message.
What do I need to be a Wildlife Rescuer?
You'll need:
- - A mobile number which can receive and send calls and SMS messages
- - A valid drivers licence and reliable car
If you don't have either of the above - please do feel free to attend the training regardless, as you'll still learn plenty!
What's the cost of being a member?
The training itself is absolutely free - however if you do choose to become a member (and we hope you do!) there is a yearly $25 charge to cover your insurance while you're out on a rescue call. This is paid directly to Wildcare (we don't see this money at all) and is 100% to cover your wellbeing.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please do let us know and we'd be happy to chat about payment plans.
As a member you'll also have access to information, updates, events and opportunities occurring at Bonorong, which is pretty cool.
Do I need to book?
Yes! Please be sure to book using this page as we have limited spots - if you need to cancel at any time, please let us know so we can advise the people on our waitlist.
What can I do right now?
Save our number in your phone so you know who to call if you find injured wildlife! 0447 264 625 (0447 ANIMAL)
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Cheers from Greg, Petra and all the furry critters at Bonorong.
