For the love of potholes… slow driving saves wildlife.
In response to the touching story entitled The Day I Met Ali, by Ian Cohen, I felt compelled to write in support and shared concern of those sentiments expressed.
I have been a wildlife carer for some 17 years and witnessed some horrific scenes, seeing the best and worst of human nature, like so many other wildlife carers.
Mr Cohen’s heartfelt experience when faced with the sad and unnecessary death of a mother Mountain Brushie is a regular ‘event’ faced by dedicated wildlife carers.
When driving at night, well aware of nocturnal wildlife and abiding by road signs (often driving slower), more often than not vehicles speed by me in anger, cut me off, often beeping their horn or shouting at me. I feel that I personally want to sue government MPs for their lack of attention to their duties and undeniable indifference and dispassion. For it is they who always put ‘progress’ and profit first. Our unique and incredible wildlife are relegated to the bottom of the barrel, undervalued and often demonised.
I feel ashamed to be Australian, as I have seen enough brutality/cruelty and five-star arrogance towards our innocent and diminishing fauna. Speed limits must be reduced and infringements increased to slow down the bogans. Imagine the increased carnage WITHOUT potholes?
Thank the Goddess for those, who check the pouch of wildlife. Let’s hope that ‘Ali’ has a long and healthy life.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
