Local wildlife rescue organisations are set to receive substantial aid, amounting to over $54,000, due to an exciting new initiative by the State Government. This financial assistance is facilitated through the popular sale of Koala State number plates and is the most substantial distribution since the program’s inception.
This initiative caters to 17 licensed not-for-profit and volunteer groups under the second round of the South Australian Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants program. Each grant, up to $5,000, aims to better the care provided to sick and injured native animals by facilitating the purchase of essential supplies, equipment, and training.
Since its launch, the program has seen over 2,600 ‘SA The Koala State’ plates purchased, with South Australian motorists contributing a one-off $50 donation per plate. The funds raised through this endeavour support wildlife carers with crucial resources, like food and vaccinations for the animals, to personal protective equipment and new enclosures for the rescuers.
The first round, which distributed $50,000, benefited 13 organisations. The continued interest and participation in this initiative have been critical in supporting the approximately 400 permitted wildlife carers across the state. These carers collectively devote hundreds of hours each year to volunteering, playing a vital role in the state’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Lucy Hood, MP, Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, shared, “By choosing a Koala State plate, you’re not only celebrating one of our most iconic animals, you’re directly supporting the tireless volunteers and organisations who dedicate their lives to caring for them.
“The record amount of support delivered this round will go a long way towards helping those carers, who commit so much of their own time and resources to look after animals in need.”
Pam Head, Chairperson of Koala Rescue Inc, added, “As a recipient, KOALA RESCUE Inc has been given the opportunity to support its volunteers by purchasing upgraded rescue equipment, koala housing equipment and browse collection tools.
“The importance of this funding is undeniable and has already made a difference to the techniques around rescuing koalas in an even safer and more efficient manner.
“KOALA RESCUE Inc acknowledges that this funding represents the government’s recognition of the importance of the roles that our volunteers continually undertake for the specific purpose of providing essential rescue and rehabilitation services for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas.”
With the number plates still available for purchase via EzyPlates, the ongoing contributions continue to improve the resources available to wildlife carers. Each plate is $151, and includes not only the donation but also a plate and reallocation fee.
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