South West Western Australia’s first dedicated wildlife hospital has officially opened, marking a major milestone for wildlife care and rehabilitation in regional WA.
The Margaret River Wildlife Hospital will significantly expand the State’s capacity to treat sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife, support wildlife rehabilitation efforts, and strengthen preparedness and response capability for wildlife emergencies including H5 bird flu.
“The Margaret River Wildlife Hospital is a great example of the wildlife sector and the government teaming up to strengthen Western Australia’s position as we prepare for the onset of bird flu, ensuring we have the capacity and expertise to respond to wildlife crises where and when it matters most,” said Environment Minister, Matthew Swinbourn.
The hospital will be operated by WA Wildlife and Wildlife Recovery Australia in partnership, providing experienced veterinary care for wild native animals free of charge, seven days a week.
“This is a very exciting project for Wildlife Recovery Australia. The partnership with WA Wildlife and the support of the State Government and WA philanthropists have made this possible,” said Wildlife Recovery Australia CEO, Stephen Van Mil.
“The Margaret River Wildlife Hospital will rapidly become a vital centre to preserve the extraordinary wildlife of south-west Western Australia.”
The facility will also work closely with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and Perth Zoo to support wildlife treatment, rehabilitation, and emergency response activities across the region.
In the coming weeks, the team will complete final preparations, including operational systems and infrastructure, ahead of commencing wildlife treatment and rehabilitation services from 12 November.
“We are excited to be opening the Margaret River Wildlife Hospital and to be able to work with the wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary communities in the South West,” said WA Wildlife CEO, Dean Huxley.
“This facility will provide numerous wildlife conservation benefits, and we are excited to be working alongside Wildlife Recovery Australia to make this dream a reality.”
The $2.77 million project is being funded via a $1.5 million investment by the Government as part of Western Australia’s bird flu preparedness and response efforts, philanthropic funding, and in-kind contributions from volunteers.
“As the South West’s first dedicated wildlife hospital, this facility represents a major step forward in wildlife care and rehabilitation in the area,” said Agriculture and Food Minister, Jackie Jarvis.
“Having a dedicated wildlife centre here in the South West will also strengthen our ability to respond to bird flu in regional Western Australia.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the difference this hospital will make for our wildlife and the wider South West community.”
