A grand vision for a wildlife hospital in Lismore has been announced.
The hospital, which would cost $1.5 million to build, and another $1.5 million to operate for the first two years, has been put forward by Macadamia Castle owner Tony Gilding, public interest environmental lawyer Sue Higginson, the Friends of the Koala, Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers and other Northern Rivers wildlife organisations.
Ms Higginson said Lismore was in the heart of one of the most biodiversity rich areas in Australia.
‘Our Wildlife is significant and was once in abundance. Many animals native to our region are now threatened with extinction and we need to turn this around,’ she said.
‘Those at the frontline know there is an overwhelming need for a wildlife hospital here in our region. All too often our wildlife is harmed through our activities, particularly as we continue to destroy habitat for road development and new residences.’
Mr Gilding said currently injured animals have to be taken to the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital which already takes in over 9000 animals per year.
‘It’s really problematic as the stress of driving sometimes over 2 hours can take its toll on a sick animal and it is a real burden on volunteers and the resources of our Wildlife Rescue organisations,’ Mr Gilding said.
Friends of the Koala president Ros Irwin said “there is an urgent need for a wildlife hospital here’.
‘Our regions koala’s are impacted everyday by human activities and disease. While the Currumbin Hospital does an amazing job we really need something closer to be effective in caring for this iconic and threatened species,’ Ms Irwin said.
Ms Higginson and Mr Gilding have begun the process of searching for volunteer trust members with appropriate skills to assist in the program.
Preliminary discussions have been had with Lismore City Council with the hope they may be able to help with finding a suitable location and further meetings are scheduled.
‘We also see SCU as a potential partner in terms of research synergies and experience for SCU students. The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital engages about 50 volunteers per annum providing valuable work experience,’ Ms Higginson said.
The initial construction cost for the hospital is likely to be in the vicinity of $1.5 million and working capital for the first two years until the hospital becomes self-funded would cost another $1.5 million.
They are now reaching out to local politicians to seek support for the hospital and request assistance with funding.
Thomas George onboard
Nationals Member for Lismore Thomas George MP has today confirmed he has had discussions with Mr Tony Gilding regarding his vision for a wildlife hospital.
‘This project is a high priority for the electorate of Lismore, servicing the needs of the whole Northern Rivers,’ Mr George said.
‘I have previously made personal representations to the Deputy Premier and highlighted the area to him last week during his visit to Lismore.
‘I was pleased to receive the indicative requirements and costings yesterday from Tony, which have been provided to the Deputy Premier’s office.
‘I will continue to work with Tony, Friends of the Koala & other organisations to achieve this outcome,’ Mr George said.
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