Recently, a critical gap has emerged in the support system for injured and suffering animals. The Bundaberg Regional Council has scaled back essential services that once provided humane assistance, including the often necessary service of euthanasia to prevent prolonged suffering in critically injured wildlife. This cut has left not only these helpless animals in distress but also the community members who find them.

Wildlife in our region faces numerous threats, from road accidents to increasing developments. The individuals who discover and attempt to assist these suffering animals are now left without the lifeline of professional and compassionate support.

Unpaid, voluntary wildlife groups that tirelessly work to safeguard our local wildlife are now bearing an even heavier burden. Without the vital backing of our council, they struggle to access necessary resources and expertise, which limits their reach and effectiveness. 

While community members may contact services such as Police, RSPCA, vets or Wildlife Officers in the Department of Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation (DETSI), the responsibility often falls back to wildlife groups. Police are understandably busy and dealing with community issues; RSPCA cannot provide on ground services; and DETSI can only intervene in very exceptional circumstances.

Wildlife that requires urgent attention are often found in our backyards, on our roadsides, and even in our parks. It is heartbreaking and unacceptable for any member of our community to encounter a suffering animal and be unable to provide the help it desperately needs due to a lack of available services.

Each year, thousands of local animals are injured. The current statistics for one local wildlife group is 13 call-outs in just over a 24 hour period for kangaroos requiring euthanasia alone. 

We urge the Bundaberg Regional Council to reinstate these vital services  to Bundaberg and surrounds immediately, and to coordinate with other local or state services who may be able to provide more assistance.

Please sign this petition to call for the humane, immediate assistance for our cherished wildlife and support for the tireless groups who fight to protect them every day.