07/08/2026
Last night I was contacted by a wonderful member of the public who had found a wallaby that had been hit by a car, with a joey still at her foot. Together, we spent hours searching the area, hoping to find the little one. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a more caring and compassionate person to work alongside. Sadly, despite my final search just half an hour ago, we have still had no luck.
I also knocked on nearby doors and left my contact details with residents, asking them to please call me if they happened to spot the joey. Every extra set of eyes gives these animals a better chance.
One of those conversations, however, took an unexpected turn. After seeing my high-vis vest with “Wildlife Victoria” on it, one gentleman became very upset and asked, “What are you going to do about this bird flu? What about my chooks?”
I completely understand that people are worried. Avian influenza is a concerning topic, and it’s natural to have questions. I calmly explained that many wildlife volunteers have been working hard to educate ourselves by undertaking training and learning as much as we can about H5N1. We are also working alongside DEECA by reporting what we see and following the procedures they have put in place.
When he replied, “Why should I have to Google it? That’s what you guys are here for,” I gently explained that our role as wildlife volunteers is to rescue, rehabilitate and release our native wildlife. While we are committed to helping where we can, DEECA is the lead authority managing avian influenza, and they have well-established plans and resources available to the public.
The media can sometimes focus on the most alarming aspects of a story, which can understandably increase fear and anxiety. If you are concerned, I encourage you to seek information from trusted sources such as DEECA or reach out with genuine questions. If I know the answer, I am always happy to help, and if I don’t, I’ll gladly point you in the right direction.
Above all, please remember that wildlife rescuers are volunteers. We give our time because we care deeply about our native wildlife. We experience the same emotions, worries and heartbreak that everyone else does—often while responding to injured and orphaned animals—but we continue because these animals need us.
Please be kind. A little understanding goes a long way. Last night I was contacted by a wonderful member of the public who had found a wallaby that had been hit by a car, with a joey still at her foot. Together, we spent hours searching the area, hoping to find the little one. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a more caring and compassionate person to work alongside. Sadly, despite my final search just half an hour ago, we have still had no luck.
I also knocked on nearby doors and left my contact details with residents, asking them to please call me if they happened to spot the joey. Every extra set of eyes gives these animals a better chance.
One of those conversations, however, took an unexpected turn. After seeing my high-vis vest with “Wildlife Victoria” on it, one gentleman became very upset and asked, “What are you going to do about this bird flu? What about my chooks?”
I completely understand that people are worried. Avian influenza is a concerning topic, and it’s natural to have questions. I calmly explained that many wildlife volunteers have been working hard to educate ourselves by undertaking training and learning as much as we can about H5N1. We are also working alongside DEECA by reporting what we see and following the procedures they have put in place.
When he replied, “Why should I have to Google it? That’s what you guys are here for,” I gently explained that our role as wildlife volunteers is to rescue, rehabilitate and release our native wildlife. While we are committed to helping where we can, DEECA is the lead authority managing avian influenza, and they have well-established plans and resources available to the public.
The media can sometimes focus on the most alarming aspects of a story, which can understandably increase fear and anxiety. If you are concerned, I encourage you to seek information from trusted sources such as DEECA or reach out with genuine questions. If I know the answer, I am always happy to help, and if I don’t, I’ll gladly point you in the right direction.
Above all, please remember that wildlife rescuers are volunteers. We give our time because we care deeply about our native wildlife. We experience the same emotions, worries and heartbreak that everyone else does—often while responding to injured and orphaned animals—but we continue because these animals need us.
Please be kind. A little understanding goes a long way.
🦘 🦘
