Maroo Wildlife Refuge Inc

2012 Courses

2012-01-25T20:48:00.000-08:00

Due to Popular demand our "Willdife Wound Care and Bandaging Course" on the 12th of February will now also be run on the "19th" February for those that missed a seat.

A thank you to Laura

2012-01-20T03:49:00.000-08:00

Maroo would like to say Farewell and Thanks to Laura for her help the last week.
Laura was one of the volunteers that came down prior to Christmas.She really wanted to return and a trip back was arranged for her to stop by for a week. Although we had days at temperatures of 35 degrees and with a great Thunderstorm and a Summer shower on her last night she was able to do some painting to the Education room, help with sorting and stacking all the gear for the Wildlife Clinic as well as feeding the Marron and digging a Trench with Digga the Excavator.
Oh by the way Laura I have now changed out all that Kangaroo Gas out of the Ernie the 4x4 Suzuki....
and he has now stopped all that Jumping about when you were driving....
From all of Us at Maroo have a Fantastic Stay in Aus and get back to the UK safe and sound.

New Courses

2012-01-14T00:57:00.000-08:00

Well greetings to everyone for 2012. It's going to be a Great Year!

We now have a 90% completed Education Room and hopefully the Crew will return soon for the completion.
Maroo is now offering Various Wildlife Courses throughout all of 2012.
Our 1st 3 courses being
-12th Feb       "Wound Care and Bandaging"
-11nd March "Handling, Safety, Transport and First Aid"
-22nd April   "Caring and Rehabilitation of Reptiles"
All to be held at the Refuge in Manjimup. Have a look at the Pages section to the right. Numbers are filling fast so be quick to reserve your seat.
We can also cater for those groups [that have a minimun number] to travel to and do the Courses at their premises, just call or send us an email to see what we can offer. Of course further costs may be added.
To Everybody and all our Wildlife a safe and enjoyable 2012 "Bring it on".
Glen

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T06:51:00.000-08:00

Well just after Santa Has been and left all his pressies and we have just cleaned up the Boomer Poo from the rooftop "NewsYears Eve" is Upon us.....

Now, as every one knows, Santa changes from Reindeer to Six White Boomers when he transverses the Continent of Aussie Land and lots of Roo Poo is left everywhere, even on our roof and at the back door.
Wheres the broom Dear!

Where does the time go?
Anyways---
To All our wonderful Supporters, Family, Friends and Wildlife in Care.
Hopping [Yes Misspelt on purpose] you all had a wonderful Christmas.
Wishing you all a safe and prosperous New Year from all of us at Maroo Wildlife Refuge

We lookforward to your continued support and well wishes throughout 2012.
We have some great plans coming....
Love as always
Glen and Jo Burston
P.s. The site supervisor is snoring in the background. Again!

Gilbert says "I Nose what ya Mean!!!!!!".....

Conservation Volunteers

2011-12-22T04:20:00.000-08:00

Our Thanks go to www.conservationvolunteers.com.au for the work that has Just been done at the Refuge and at Margart River Fire sites.

Explaining to some of the group the importance of installing Kangaroo Swing Gates into the Perimiter Fencing to allow the wild Kangaroo Mob to enter the Refuge Easily and without getting caught in the fence. Thus eliminating the need for ongoing Fence maintenance.

Simon, Sunny [from South Korea] and yours Truly after the installation of Gate 1 [of 3 required]. Yes Simon did get dirty..

The Bogun Dugong gate. Those that installed them will know the relevence. :)

We now have 5 gates Installed around the Perimeter Fencing.

Mr Tom the 70 [well late 69er] MACHINE. This bloke should be a role model to all the elderly challenged to get out there and experience life. His Experience, Knowledge and his awe inspiring conversations were a joy to be recogned with. His Face is covered for the protection of the innocent. Tom made sure that there was always enought Hot Water for the Ladies and kept all the Critters at bay during the night. I am sure he sleeps with BOTH Eyes Open.

The First Evening walk we viewed the Lighning Struck Jarrah Tree.

Camp David.

Putting feed out at one of the feed stations at Margaret River

One of the many unlucky

Day 4 Packing up for the Return Trip back to Perth.

Maybe the Marron for supper and the Bush night walks helped to say Thank You for the volunteers Time, The Volunteers Efforts and also Supporting the Refuge.
Glen and Jo

Getting there

2011-12-15T04:36:00.000-08:00

The Dynamic Duo have been hard at it today.

Inbetween Showers and the Flies. Flies that I may add are "Sticky" as Honey to you.

Oh Site Supervisor Ellie has moved away from the Home Fire and is seen here checking out the Work. And whats that Gilbert is Giving Jo a Hug?? never had believed it without a Photo to prove it...

Taking Shape

2011-12-14T03:30:00.000-08:00

Well it has started to take shape. Our Education room is well under way.
Thanks go to "Barney" and "Rubble" [their real names can't be given as in their off time they are Super Heros] who are working diligently to get the Job Done. They don't stop even when it rains...

Gilbert the apprentice was looking at a Tree.

We had 22mm of Rain in under 15 minutes just after the dynamic Duo left.
I think their Spidey senses were tingling..

Site supervisor Elle was asleep [Again] in front of the wood stove in the Homestead.

Jo's Tree

2011-12-13T03:38:00.000-08:00

I thought I would throw this photo in. A bewdiful Jarrah of an unknown old age situated in amoungst the 14ha of Blue gums we have on the Refuge.
When the small Plantation went in they went around this old Great Giant [with thanks].
Takes 3 people to Hug it and the Kangaroo's enjoy it's cool shade in summer.

Thank you to Generous People

2011-12-08T22:10:00.001-08:00

Yes a Great Big Thank you goes to Kathy and Peter Burgess from Denmark [Western Australia] who donated Proceeds from a Painting of a Red Tailed Black Cockatoo, painted by the renowned Artist Ian Williams from Waternish on the Isle of Skye [ ian.williams83@btinternet.com ], and thats a really long way from from the Refuge, that allowed the Cockatoo enclosure to be Compled.
There are some Great people out there in support of our Unique Wildlife.

The Enclosure

under construction and completion.

Front View

Preperation and Weighing Bench

Side View

Feed Station

And later some Perches etc

Fire Updates

2011-12-08T04:46:00.001-08:00

Some Fawna Volunteers with Jeff [Fawna President] were out on one of the Properties that we were Allowed to go onto to search.

From out of the Death

Life is Found.

and Transported.

to be released into a more freindy and hospitable area.

And so does the Bush starts to regrow from the ashes.

It has to be shown

2011-12-07T04:30:00.001-08:00

Sorry but this HAS to be shown. This poor Animal met a death it did not deserve.
What about the others? How will their stories be told?

After the Fires

2011-12-06T04:23:00.001-08:00

Well its Official from the Govt.
Just how much area was burnt The total Area for the Milyeannup [Nannup area] and Ellensbrook [Margaret River] was 55,151ha + 3,620ha with respective perimiters of 201kms and 66kms. Hows that for an out of control "controlled" burns.

Ellensbrook Stats -32 Homes, 9 Chalets, 4 Sheds as well as the historic Wallcliffe House, which actually had a complete fire supression system installed but the Caretaker was not allowed onto the fire ground to activate it!! were destroyed. 22 Houses and 1 shop were damaged.

Unbelievably nothing on the loss of Wildlife-- aren't they the Department of Environment and Conservation? [D.E.C].. How many colonies of Possums were lost, how many mobs of Kangaroos Lost, Brush Tail Wallabies Lost? How many Reptiles Lost? Birds can fly away but who now have a huge loss of Habitat.
Thousands of Wildlife Incinerated!
"NOT 1 WORD".
The few that remain Burnt and in pain does the Government do anything for them? No!.
Will us Wildlife Rehabilitators be able to fill in a claim form NO!
Its up to us Rehabilitators to use our Funds and Donations that we have to try as hard as we can to get to pay for the cost of rehabilitation and not just for this Incident.
You the Public have Donated your Time, your Money and for the purchase of Medical Equipment and supplies all because you have the Kindness to and we all give thanks for that for without You
"The Public" things would be less. THANK YOU!

Please don't get me wrong we love what we do and will do it until the day I get to that big paddock of Wildlife that could not be saved [Its bloody bigger now!].

You know the DEC "Stated" that no Veterinarian bills would be paid for by the DEC for Injured Wildlife on the day we went out searching. Lucky for them I suppose they had already fixed that.
Oh and also we are still not allowed onto the fire ground and effected areas to search.

This fight goes on not just today but tomorrow and the next and the next as there are still Wildlife that need food and support and without us Rehabilitators who else do they Have?

Am I on my soapbox you betchya I am. "I need a Hug"...

A Personal Thank You

2011-12-05T04:21:00.001-08:00

Maroo would like to Personally send out a special "Thank You" to Jeff and Linda Falconer both of FAWNA who were overseeing the Margaret River Fires. It takes special people to have the Leadership and Integrity to hold the group together in a Time of Need. Under the cicumstances these 2 came to the call of the situation and with what they had, have done a Fantastic Job.

Maroo is glad that we have been able to see these People in action and are Proud to also be part of the Organisation that they belong to.

From all the Wildlife that is in care and that is still coming in, they can't say anything but to recover and be able to be released back into the Bush that is what we all aim to do.
Both will take time, wounds heal and the bush will regrow. Both together "Hopefully" allowing us to release back to where they came from. Sadly due to the Extensive nature of this disaster it will take the bush longer to recover than some of its patients.

Well done to Jeff and Linda from all of us at Maroo Wildlife Refuge. Charlie says Thanks as well....

Jeff Re-hydrating a Possum from a Land for Wildlife Property
at Margaret River [Monday] and then passed onto the Vets.

Stats for Milyeannup National Park

2011-12-04T05:32:00.001-08:00

Slim Pickings for this Brush Tailed Wallaby on Stewart Road

Ok Here are our Stats-

Time Animal Location

4.45pm Long Necked Tortoise JangardupRoad Just North of Lake Jasper

Crossing Road Burnt Busharea, Examined Carapace, Scoots that were shedding were slightly singed butotherwise all Ok , released into Wetlands 400m down the road

5.00pm BTW [Brush Tail Wallaby] Stewart Road JustNorth of PneumoniaRoad

Feeding On Strip of Road asall other Bush Burnt Out. Looked in Good Condition

5.10pm 2 x BTW Same as Above

5.11pm 3 xBTW Same as Above

5.15pm 5 xBTW Turned Right onto Great South Road [Heading East]approx. 100m down the road.

Animal Conditions Same asabove

5.20pm 4 xBTW Great South Road Same as Above

All Burt along Stewart Road.

Stewart Road to Darradup Roadalong Great South Road Burnt.

East and North of DarradupRoad was unburnt up to Brockman Highway. Side Tracks Closed though

We went down Jangardup Roadto Lake Jasper but Just Before we got there The VFB were closing therest of the way and the Dozer was getting loaded.

Vasse Highway uneventful nowildlife on road.

Graphite Road was Burt insome areas but no wildlife on Road.

Summary of Day

-Believe the best time to seeWildlife Early Morning or Early Evening [Dawn and Dusk] as Wildlife aremore Likely to be out and about.

-These areas had plenty ofwater around.

-Stewart Road only foodavailable on Road Verge

-Great South Road pockets offood available is small areas. Access to food Further East 3-5kms away.

-Best speed for ViewingWildlife 25-30kms/Hr

-No Dec [Department of Environment or Conservation] or Fesa [Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia] Seen otherthan at Command Post on Vasse Hwy.

-No Unauthorised entry intoany location carried out. We stuck to Public access roads only.

A Nannup Bushfire Survivor

2011-12-04T05:13:00.001-08:00

Whilst the Maroo Rescue Vehicle was out checking for Willdife after the Recent Nannup fires we came across this fellow [Long Necked Tortoise] trying to get to water. He was on the side of the road right in the fire areas. See Below how he got there?

Examination showed that his Scoots on his Carapace were shedding and were slightly singed but otherwise he was all ok.

A nice watering hole was located just up the road so we did him the honour of a brief transport FOC of course, and without so much of a wink, off he went to the depths.

We got that good feeling you get when helping Willdife.

After so much devastation.

In under a week our Rescue Vehicle has Travelled over 1,000kms and all for a good cause.

Lets Have some Good News

2011-12-03T05:23:00.001-08:00

Agro Gets Bigger Every Day. He Loves his hollow in his enclosure and below is enjoying a crunchie bit of Broccoli. One of his Favourites but not too often as he is now on Bush Tucker.

Still a little bit longer until he is released back into the Bush but his Brush Tail is looking Supurb.

"Caravan Wanted Plea"

2011-12-01T19:33:00.001-08:00

Prior to the Margaret River fires I placed various ads for a Caravan wanted for a Wildlife Emergency Care Unit. This has now become more important than ever so my call goes out to anyone reading Maroos Blog.
If they have a Caravan of approx 16ft [or smaller] Preferabally licenced in reasonable condition [that you can stand up in] that I can fit out the inside to our requirements we would be Gratfully Appreciative if it could be donated to the Refuge.
We are aware that the busselton FAWNA group are looking for a fitted out Trailer and we are fully supportive of their efforts and Maroo will assit to make that happen as well.
But Maroo is 2+ hours away and a Caravan would compliment coverage in the Warren/Great Southern Region..one of the adds can be seen on
http://perth.gumtree.com.au/c-Cars-Vehicles-Motorbikes-Parts-caravan-campervan-motor-home-Wanted-Caravan-Free-for-Wildlife-Refuge-Emergency-Care-Unit-W0QQAdIdZ324395260
It will take time to happen but we are confident as there is always someone out there that cares just as much as we do for our Wildlife.

Glen
Chairman

It has Started

2011-12-01T04:55:00.001-08:00

With everything else happening our Education Room Started Today. Windows arrived followed by the works team. Site Preperation in progress and will advise on the job at it evolves.

Don't worry if we have to attend another emergency the Building crew have had a brief how to feed the Animals in Care.

More Fires

2011-12-01T04:45:00.001-08:00

As if we do not have enough to contend with fires are now burning South West of Nannup, Augusta,
Lake Jasper and Donnely River.

Margaret River fires provided some very good insights of Wildife Triage and Volunteer Co-ordination both of which worked extremly well but can always be improved. How does the old saying go be prepared. I can not stress this enough if you are in a Wildlife Organization please practice-- have your Volunteer sheets Ready, Maps and Co-ordinators-- make is so much easier. We all worked well together as a "Team" and if we needed something it was done in a calm and co-ordinated matter not bad for our 1st Time. All that came a big thank you for your Time and patience.

What a Day!

2011-11-29T06:37:00.001-08:00

Part of the group of 30+ Volunteers that turned out today for Wildlife Searches.

This is what Faced us this morning a Barren Landscape. The Local and State Authorities gave us limited access to areas --what was to be found was not pleasant.

An Early victim. Maroo arrived just in time to be sent with our Trailer and Transport box to a Western Grey that was reported injured and in a paddock. After a Safe capture here she is being worked on in the Triage area that was set up at a Private residence "Matans Galleries" and a BIG thank you goes out to Jim the owner for allowing us to use one of his Buildings.
Sadly this Doe had to be Euthanized due to the severity of the burns to her pads and Hands.

The areas had an eerieness to them. No noises only the sound of wind passing through burnt bush's.
Some wildlife had escaped whilst others were not so fortunate and we do hope that the end came quickly for those animals.

It could be another week or 2 before access is given to enter some of the other areas.

Our co-ordination was a team effort and worked extremly well.

It's been a very long day i'm tired and going to bed!.
Thank you for your thoughts and those that have helped in any small way we really do appreciate it.
No pleasant dreams tonight I fear....

At the Ready

2011-11-27T19:30:00.001-08:00

The Maroo Rescue Vehicle and Emergency Responce Trailer is ready to roll.

A word from the South West President of Fawna who is Heading the incident control management.
Dear friends
I am glad people like Peter got a sleep yesterday after long shifts at the engine room. I am struggling with only minimal hours sleep and I have not had the other stresses of fumes and lives hanging off my actions and so on.
Thanks everyone out there helping in their own way, it is appreciated. We have some medical supplies coming in by donation and also we have funded local aquisitions to establish triage capability. The triage team is on the roll and thanks to all who will be in it including Flic (on mat leave). Donna through me will coordinate the process and Bev has the majority of the hardware we need at her place at the ready. I have started action on long term establishment of our resouces as this is not the last fire we will see and need a speedier response time in future.
Peter is waiting on the go ahead for the sweep through DEC channels and also hoping to be given leave to be the designated officer to head the onground action. I am talking today with the minister and some media all going well and finalising with Linda lists of who is doing what where etc. This will be out asap but in the meantime.
PLEASE "EVERYONE" CONFIRM TO LINDA BY EMAIL.. ethelmay 7@hotmail.com ........TODAY? This morning if possible!!.......... your availability for tues and capability for what duties you can /will do.
Things change so we need everyone who has already said yes to reconfirm and more volunteers to throw their hat in the ring to help eg Transport, caring for wildlife, veterinary experience/quals, sweep capability/willingness, other duties(collecting boxes for movement of animals, collection of pillowslips and towels and getting them ready - asking shops and the likes of vinnies etc)...everyone can do this now and it is urgent!!!!
If you can take animals, please disinfect your cages now and confirm what and how many you can take. Be prepared!!
Finally, we will have a bulletin out when we hear of action places and times so read your email before 5-00pm tonight. We may have a meeting tonight for all who will be involved if we can go tomorrow.
AND ..... I know people are doing all they can to help and it is really appreciated, BUT please let me know daily of your actions and outcomes and plans. We cannot have uncordinated action which can lead us into trouble. A smoothe operation needs coordination and as I am it, please all details to me as often as you can but at least daily! I also need to approve all actions.
Again thanks
Jeff
"As you are aware there have been massive fires in the south west and especially in and around Margaret River and Nannup. FAWNA is involved as much as it can be at present and when it is safe and clear, a large number of volunteers will do walk throughs to find and deal with injured wildlife.
In the meantime any wildlife that is found by the public should be sent to a vet for an examination. There is no cost to members of the public for wildlife.The animals will then be distributed to carers for recovery work and much later release.
Due to the nature of burns, there will need to be dressings and pain killers etc. administered and an increase in the need for food foraging and other costs. Anyone can help by making a donation to FAWNA to be earmarked for emergency funds and fire relief costs. Clean towels and cages could also be a big help.
Contact FAWNA either via the web www.fawna.com.au or email or by phone if you can assist..0438 526 660. The best way to transport wildlife is in a cool car (A/C on) in a closed box or wrapped in a towel or sheets etc. Lightly sprinkled water over the towel may also help.
All help is appreciated. FAWNA volunteers will do all they can but the general public can help enormously also.
Thank you
Jeff Falconer
President FAWNA"

Sunday

2011-11-27T02:24:00.001-08:00

Some good news Fesa advise as below:

A bushfire Watch and Act has been downgraded to ADVICE for people west of Caves Road, south of Wallcliffe Road and north of Mammoth Cave Road.
There is no threat to lives or homes. Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date.

Fires Update

2011-11-26T05:22:00.001-08:00

Nannup fire looks to be contained.

120 Bush Fire Service, Department of Environment and Conservation firefighters and contractors in 30 appliances with four dozers and two loaders are working to consolidate containment lines. The being supported by two water bombers.

Now the very sad news:
Margaret River Fires Thirty one houses, four sheds and nine chalets, including the historic Wallcliffe House, have been lost to the fire, while 16 houses and one shop have been damaged at Prevelly, Gnarabup and Redgate.
A 200 strong contingent of fire personnel from DEC, local volunteer bushfire brigades and FESA have been and will continue to be on the scene, supported by water bombers and machinery.

Wildife:
Some wildlife is starting to trickle in to centres but many are very badly burnt and are having to be euthinased. Registered carers will not be allowed in for some time [maybe another 2 days] into the affected areas due to the safety concerns and possible hazards that still exist. Things do not look good at this stage.

Fires in the SouthWest

2011-11-25T14:47:00.001-08:00

It looks that at least 40 homes and Chalets have been destroyed in the tourist area of Margaret River.

This fire was a controlled DEC burn that on monday at Gracetown winds fanned it out of control. Many roads have been closed and residents have been evacuated to the local Shelter.

Also over 26,000 hectares have been burnt out south East of Nannup luckily this is in State Forest and no housing developments but home to many species of Wildlife.

Another fire at Denmark see on the Below Nasa satellite image on the right hand corner and is still burning.

All the fires will have devastating effect on the Wildife and the ecosystems that are there. Our Local South West care group fawna [Maroo are members of] have been advised that it may not be until monday that inspections for injured Wildlife can be carried out in the Margaret River areas.

Maroo also was on alert as there was another fire 25kms nort of us in KIngston forest that was a small fire and was contained but not until 30 hectares had been burnt.

Our heat goes out to all thos have have lost property and posessions.

Luckily no reports of injuries or deaths have occured in all these fires.

What a Monster e-book

2011-11-22T15:26:00.001-08:00

Please check out our Oversees Correspondent and Comittee member David McGrath's new ebook on Kindle. It was a trip to Maroo in Western Australia that inspired this creative genius into writing a magically wonderfull childrens book. It is a great read and does not cost the Earth.

Please click on the link on the Right which will give you more information and where to purchase.
A proportion of the proceeds of any sales will be used for conservation projects at Maroo Wildlife Refuge so please "tell" everyone.

Enclosure Progress

2011-11-22T04:25:00.001-08:00

The Enclosure is taking shape. Mesh is now applied to the outside and awaiting on Sheeting for the rear covered area..
I still have to make a seperate attached entrance as this will be required for security and local regulations with regards to endangered species rehabilitation.

Agro is Growing Up

2011-11-19T20:00:00.001-08:00

Agro is coming along in leaps and bounds. We are now gradually weaning him off his Milk Formula and onto a more Possum orientated diet of Gum leafs and flowering native plants.
Some of his nightly antics and shows he is eating is Gum Leafs. He is such a good boy..
http://youtu.be/uqRqvBbOaak

Its Nearing Completion

2011-11-14T02:07:00.001-08:00

Rain Rain and a Internet Modem blowout...Yep been down with out internet for 3 days now. Was starting to get the shakes from withdrawals....Glad we have a bookcase.Why does it always happen on a Friday Night!!!!
Inbetween showers The Power shed nears completion.

Just some more flashing and the Spires to go. Oh forgot to install the Downpipes Doh!!!!

Here is a Night Stealthcam viewing of Agro's nightly antics.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpJJB3XE5xA

Now Broadcasting on You tube

2011-11-07T19:37:00.001-08:00

Well I had no luck on uploading videos here so lets try this one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDX1eBWa6L4 lets see if this works.Enjoy...

Power Shed

2011-11-05T03:38:00.000-07:00

Guess what i picked up the other Day. The "Maroo Power Company" Shed that is. Think of Ikea of the Shed world. Woo Hoo Jo says as this will clear up the Wildlife Clinic of Batteries and Inverters and Chargers. Just to put it into perspective we are on Solar Power. "Off the Grid" no bills from ANY power company. Currently 6 of the 12 panels are giving us all our Power needs.

We can cook Bread {Yum}, do the washing, etc and run a few heat lamps for the Baby Wildlife but is just managing and need a safety factor for those extended wintery days. Coming into summer it won't be as concerning but I need this up and running before winter. With the Power Shed I can increase the capacity to the full potential. And spring brings in more wildlife.

The Kit Shed Goes together. Oh and then it starts to Rain and Rain and Rain...and then the Big Fella upstairs decides to play Bowl's, with huge amounts of Thunder and Lightning!!!!!that slows the worker [Me!] down and I don't fancy getting frizzled. The Electrical storms are awesome in the Bush.Crisp air and clean skies....and Yes that's another cement floor I poured as well.
I can hear the water Tanks filling. NICE!

.

Kangaroo Kam

2011-11-05T03:18:00.001-07:00

Does not look like the Stealth Cam worked so i have taken the post off.
Will keep trying though...

A New Avairy/Enclosure

2011-10-31T05:13:00.000-07:00

Work is never ending here at the Refuge! Glen is now in the process of fabricating one of many avairies/enclosures that we need.
It starts off as a fabricated panel down at the Machinery shed. Using Patio Tube, Mesh
and Brackets. He says it's fast and easy to do either that or he is just good?

One completed side

Then it gets transported to the location all safe and sound.

Here is Jo laying the Wire under the frames. This stops any unwanted Animals Digging under the Frames and getting in and we don't want that happening.

On completion this will be covered over with gravel.

One panel Going Up.

then another

and it all starts to take shape.

Finished size will be 6mx6mx2.9m High. Entrance doors still to be fabricated.

Stay Tuned for more progress in the coming week/s

The back will be covered with roofing iron and so will half of the roof.

Clearing up Before Fire Season

2011-10-31T04:38:00.000-07:00

Our Fire Season is fast approaching and here at the Refuge we have a fire management plan. Part of that plan is clearing up and burning of the old logging piles, as well as keeping the grasses in a manageable condition.

We keep and recyle any hollows we find as they are good for nesting animals and also any useable timber is used for the Homestad heating and cooking. Some old Timber is also recycled and will also find it's way into, and part of, any of the enclosures. Oops forgot to mention fencing too.

If you look hard you can see the Firefighting unit in the background. 1,000litres and pumps all in one.

Agros Future habitat abode

2011-10-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

Here is Agros Habitat awaiting his arrival, when he is a bit Older that is, and ready for his Next Stage of rehabilitation. [Just Finished]

Out under the Trees and away from the works. Here are a couple of his hollows he will use during the daylight hours.

Oh and how much can a little Possum eat in one night one may ask? have a look. This is as well as his Formula. And yes it is all gone in the morning.....

Rescues

2011-10-25T02:33:00.000-07:00

Well being in the South West of Western Australia you never know where you will end up in the Rescue Vehicle...

A Mothy Visitor

2011-10-25T02:11:00.000-07:00

Out on our Nightly inspection of the Refuge Boundary we came home not expecting a Good looking Visitor to welcome us at the Back door.

sorry the one above is a bit blurry but i thought it was going to attack...

Magnificent colouring though.

What was it

2011-10-25T01:58:00.000-07:00

Yep it was a Brush Tailed Possum....Well done Dave.. nice call. His Name is "Agro" and not by nature he has settled down for feeding.

and is putting on weight. Loves the farmers wife down the roads Roses. These are old timer roses that have an old time fragrance....YUM!

Whatisit?

2011-10-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

The Refuge has a new Visitor. Anyone willing to have a guess?

Sleepover

2011-10-20T04:40:00.000-07:00

The Refuge, whilst helping do research work at the Perup ecology centre, found Mother and Daughter were seperated. So Maroo had a very special over night 200gram [approx 0..44 of a Pound] Guest. This is an endangered Woylie joey. The next day Mother and Daughter were happily reunited. This little Girl was a pleasure to look after for the night. She was very active in her warm hot box environment checking everything out. Sorry no TV for her either well the refuge does not have one anyway.

Alice's new Companion

2011-10-19T03:03:00.000-07:00

Yes Alice is doing great. Here she is with her newest friend "Cobber". Alice's new Carer needed a companion for Cobber and they fell in Love 1st sight. Both are doing well. Now you all should know that Cobber is on the Left and Alice is on the right ok.
On a different note check this out. This is "Lauchy" a baby Bushtail Possum enjoying getting fed from his Buston Blue Teat. Sent to us from one of our Carers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9chm5QnYnQ&feature=share
enjoy..

New Sponsor

2011-10-19T02:29:00.000-07:00

You will see our New Sponsor Outdoor World Manjimup. They will be constructing our Lotterywest Funded Education Room and also have supplied some much needed Materials for our Cockatoo Cages.
Construction will be posted soon. Watch this Space......

Old Timers

2011-10-16T03:09:00.000-07:00

The Refuge was invited to go on a Vintage Rally today so why not. Dusted off the Jolly Green Giant and off we headed. I had 2 Great Navigators The Missus [on the Right] and Kim a Vet from Sydney.

So off we headed to Pemberton stopping off a Truffle Farm.

And a cyder factory. We won't say how many Kim had but she soon wanted to become a Trucker..

So can anyone Guess what the other vehicles are?

Then a run back to the refuge to feed all the animals. No we did not win the raffle or the Quiz but did have a great time.

Alice Leaves Us

2011-10-16T02:52:00.000-07:00

In a nice way ok. Brush Tail wallabies need to be brought up with other Wallabies so she has gone to one of our Back up carers who fortunatly has a Boy to pair up with. Don't worry once she has settled in I will post an update. She has put on weight and is feeding very well.

He's Back

2011-10-11T04:46:00.000-07:00

You should remember Harry the Huntsman [as he is now called] being evicted a few days ago-- well He's back!!.
Seems outside life was foo much for him and he missed the comforts of a warm fire and free food.
Now try taking a photo of a small Saucer sized Spider in focus and Yes he is very Much alive!
He also thanks Our Sponsors..

New Products

2011-10-09T04:02:00.000-07:00

What to do on a Rainy Sunday. Watch Holden Win Bathurst 1,2,3...woohoo
and maybe develop some new products for Wildlife Use....what better way to spend a sunday.
See Below for our New 20ml Syringe Burston Blue Teat. [These are in Trials at the Present].

Also in Trials is our New Designed "Comfort Teat". I have devised a way to inject Air into the top section making it softer for the Young to suckle on. Some Young will use these, some may not but
as they are all individuals it is up to the Carer to see if they are what is required at the time.

Please contact the Refuge if you have any questions.

Spider Removalists

2011-10-09T03:25:00.000-07:00

Spider Spider I hear....Well its only a little [Plate Sized] Huntsman Spider looking for a meal in the Bedroom.. not here she says...and you want ME to move it... Luckily Brother Kevin was here to sort the situation out. Banished outside it was...Critters ouside Humans inside..

This is what happens when you come to Visit the Refuge.... Manual Labour at work. Gloves and Eye Protection a must. And NO he did not finish cutting the pile behind him... Something about sore shoulders and it's raining...and I need a cup of tea....oh and I did remove that spider right!!!!

Meet Alice

2011-10-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

Hello world here is Alice [a Brush Tailed Wallaby] and very lucky to be here. The refuge was on our weekly trip to Town to gather Supplies and Post our Latest batch of Burston Blue Silicone Wildlife Teats. We were following the School Bus that was about 1/2 a Kilometer in front of us on the Narrow road that links us to Civilisation.

Around a bend and there was a Fully grown Brush Tailed Wallaby lying in the Middle of the Road. And they don't normally do that for good reason. We pulled up and put on our Reflective Wildlife vest [as we did not want to end up as the same fate] to check the animal. It was a female and with a large pouch - I held no hope that there was anything alive as the Bus had just gone past right over the top and I would have said no way. Then all of a sudden movement of the Pouch. Quickly we moved to the side of the road with the Deceased Mother. On full inspection there was a fully furred Joey looking back at us and a scared Bark to warn us off. Back to the Rescue Vehicle for the Wildlife Kit and a warm pouch.
Back at the Refuge she was checked over and miraculosly to be all ok and was left in a nice quiet and warm room to recover. Here she is a week later not as scared and a long Journey begins for her to return to the wild.
Her mum was given a decent burial and a whisper in her ear that her baby was going to survive...

Whats better than a Dozen Eggs?

2011-10-03T04:35:00.000-07:00

Well hows about a dozen Ducklings?
Mum had disappeared and the neighbours were now caring for these. Now the Neighbours went away on holidays and guess what whos looking after Who here?.

Sightings

2011-10-03T04:31:00.000-07:00

It was encouraging to see these 3 Carnaby Cockatoos [White Tailed Black Cockatoos] down in the front Paddock near the Dam. Mum, Dad and the Juvanile in the Middle. Not a bad shot from 500m full zoom on the Old Digital Kodak and one steady hand. There were a few others at the Dam but my big feet scared them off.

Here is a great shot of some Carnabys in full flight heading away from me. These truly are an amazing Cockatoo. Also on our Endangered List.

Antz and more

2011-10-01T03:27:00.000-07:00

One of the many thousands of flying Ants.

Thats not dust on the lenz of the camera but Flying Ants. The Birds are swooping too fast to get an accurate shot.

Saturday musings

2011-10-01T02:28:00.000-07:00

We awoke this morning to a Beautifull crisp mist. Still awaking from the cool was this Moth and maybe Dave from Lancashire and Lakeland can identify.

Not soon after this little Willy Wagtail decided it was Breakfast. Minus the Bacon and Eggs. and no more moth to be seen....
It has been a beautiful day getting to 22-23 degrees and sun to warm the old joints up. All the flying ants have started their exodus from their respective nests.

Not to be outdone by the Guys and showing that the Ladies can do it just as well. Jo decided it was her time to do some trenching. After a "Safety Induction" and donning protective gear I retreated to the House. Well left to her own a very impressive Trench was well under way after I had my morning coffee and my nerves were settled. There may not be a lot of dirt in the bucket this time but rest assured it got better and fuller as the moring sun rose over the tree tops. I think I am now out of a job!

Maroo goes Nannup way

2011-09-29T05:03:00.000-07:00

We visited Dee and David at Nannup today and a big thank you goes to both of them for showing us around their Black Cockatoo Rehabilitation Facility and opening their home to our arrival. Pictured with me is one of the many Babies they were caring for and this one being one of the Endangered Red Tailed Black Cockatoos [Naso]. Our Trip was to introduce ourselves and to also have a look at their great flight aviary they have. Both Dee and David have been caring for these Endangered Cockatoos for almost 25 years. There were 7 babies being cared for around the clock when we visited. I do hope that I have convinced David to start up a blog as well to keep everyone in touch of their great work.

Whilst we were there Dee was due to feed her Babies [Cockatoos]. and asked if we had one our Burston Blues to try as the Latex ones she was using were collapsing. Well ever the ready a quick look throught the Rescue Vehicle came up with a Number 3- 3 coat to try. As our usual reaction by people was it's "Very Blue isn't it" and maybe they won't take to it well a picture says a thousand words. They are now used as a crop feeder how good is that with no collapsing.

The Visiting Mob

2011-09-28T02:17:00.000-07:00

Here is the Top Paddock Mob Visiting us early this morning. There are about 15 in this group plus Joeys and everyone looks to be in Top condition. Also with them is our residend family of magpies.These Maggies, as we call them, are all related and will be here forevere as this is their Territory. They are eating the Earthworms that are most plentiful here.
I can't wait to start the Vege Garden.

2011-09-26T03:59:00.000-07:00

The Refuge now has a stable water supply hooray. All the Concreting and digging has now resulted in a Gravity fed water supply system to the Homestead and even more importantly the Enclosures. Now we don't not have to cart water everywhere. The larger tank in the background 5,000L will, in the coming week, replace the 2,500L Tank doubling our capacity. Now how do we get the bigger tank up there?

Sneaking under the Fence

2011-09-23T03:45:00.000-07:00

This is at 6.15pm and loosing the light quickly. At 100m and this Fellow has Just snuck uner the fence. Luckily we don't have Border Police. Can you see all 3? there is another hiding just behind the Fence Post. These are all wild Kangaroos coming into the Refuge to munch on the paddock we have.

Visitors

2011-09-23T03:39:00.000-07:00

Here is Tippy. A Western Grey Kangaroo. She is one of the Many wild visitors we get each evening and during the Night.You will notice she is with Joey as there is a very large something in her Pouch...
This was about 5.30 this evening and she is about 300m away with the camera on maximum zoom.

Bennys 1st Blue

2011-09-21T04:51:00.000-07:00

OK OK we don't get Wombats in Western Australia. But Benny had a sad story and i wanted to show you his progress. He now enjoys getting fed with a Burston Blue Teat.

Is that Not a Happy Face?

Thank you to his Carer [Marie] for sending this Photo.

Out and About

2011-09-21T04:24:00.000-07:00

Well we had a call from the Local DEC Co-ordinator [Dept of Environment and Conservation] were we available to do some sand Pads with them 1st thing in the Morning? This was at 4-15pm the day before.... Our Motto "Always Prepared" so off we went this morning to do a total of 50 sand pads. These are used for monitoring feral and Local Wildlife. They consist of a 1 1/2m wide patch of sand [Just the right stuff] and the constancy is a secret -- but it looked like Brikkies yellow Sand, right across the Bush Tracks. Raked and fluffed then smoothed with a Broom to get a fluffy sand consistency that will take an animals foot print. We felt like CSI peopel there for a while. Some rain the night before washed a few away but we had records of Emu, Kangaroos, Feral Cat, Quenda, Wallaby, Chudich and a Bird of some sort.

We also had visual sightings of Tammar Wallaby, Woylie, Emu [maybe the one that left the Tracks?] Red Tailed Black Cockatoos and White tailed Black Cockatoos feeding.

Radio Tracking was also done on 8 Individual Woylies [Radio Tracking Collars fitted last Year] and we are happy to say all 8 were Located [Via Radio] and we on the Hop so to speek.

A long and Enjoyable day by both of us.

2011-09-10T21:52:00.000-07:00

Here is Brother Kevin - he came to visit and ended up assisting with Digga [The Mini Excavator]. Digging the Water Trench from the Refuge Main Water Tank to the previously layed Water Tank slab. He is also one of our bestest Volunterers.

Here is Leonard looking in from the Bush viewing Progress being made -- well slowly by Brother Kevin. Site manager Ellie went on a perimiter fence walk very early this moring to check the Fencing and well is in bed asleep. AGAIN.

Movie Stars?

2011-09-09T03:41:00.000-07:00

If we have our Hand Prints in Cement does that make us Movie Stars?

I see that the Site manager was 1st! and todays Date. now to go and clean all the Gear....

Signing the Slab

2011-09-09T03:39:00.000-07:00

Its done 3 hours later....I may be slow but what the Heck when i have all day to do it. 2.2mx2.2mx.1m 5 bags of Cement and 4 Bucket loads of Gravel...

It Begins

2011-09-09T03:34:00.001-07:00

The Start of the Cementing Begins for the Water Tank Stand. Its a Nice cool 24 degrees today and under shade. My 1st attempt at laying a slab of Concrete...

Tank Stand Pad

2011-09-08T03:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the New Pad for the Wildlife Refuge's Water Supply ready for the Cement Pour. Thats Gilbert one of the Refuges Helpers. Ellie our Supervisor was asleep in the Homestead but don't say i told you ok. As we are not connected to Mains. You Kids out there may take it for granted that you just turn the tap on. Think again when you have no town supply what then? The Refuge has a 130,000 Litre Water tank that collects from the Machinery Shed. The Machinery shed is 17m x 9m now if we had 100mm of rainfall in a day how much water have we collected? It's crystal clear as we are 40 kms from the town of Manjimup. The Shire has 9,775 people in it covering an area of over 7,000 square kms...

The Clearing is done

2011-09-08T03:13:00.000-07:00

Finally the Clearing for our Education room. Another Hard Days work at the Refuge. There will be 2 old Stumps and a Big Jarrah Log at the end of the Car Park. Now we await the arrival of the Components to start Building.

Stumpy Finally removed!

2011-09-05T04:14:00.001-07:00

Well it took 5 Hours 1 Mini Excavator, 1 Tractor with a Bucket, 2 Broken Chains and a lot of Sweat but the old Tree Stmp was finnally removed from its resting place. Looking and counting the Rings of the old Jarrah Tree Stump we guestimated it at 400-450 years old! It was possibly Cut down for timber around the Late 50's or 60's would have been well over 150Ft tall and the stump has been in the Ground ever since!. We have even bigger Stumps in the Back 110 acres.

Thats Ellie our Faithfull Works Supervisor Posing for the Shot. She Keeps on eye on what Dad is doing if its No good she goes and Tells Mum. SERIOUSLY!

2011-09-05T04:12:00.001-07:00

Weve Done it

2011-09-05T03:58:00.000-07:00

Its taken a while but we have finally done it.
We moved into the Refuge 4 weeks ago and have hit the ground running.
With starting up our own production of "Burston Blues" Wildlife "Silicone" Teats,
Moving all our Stuff [you don't want to know how Much] oh and all of Jo's gear [thats the Missus] for her Wildlife Clinic its been a very busy time. I do however apologise for not updating this Blog but rest assured it will be now. I just have to learn how to do all of it again.

The Home is up for Sale

2009-01-11T00:33:00.000-08:00

Well I have managed to upload a few photos.
"How we plan to to finance it all".
Well we own the 160 acre [Just over 64 Hectares] property 3 1/2 hrs drive from Perth near Manjimup in the South West of Western Australia. We have named it "Maroo" if you are all wondering why then Ma is for the help that my Grandmother gave to us and Roo for the affinity we have with the Australian Kangaroo and how they have entered and touched our lives.
As you can see our Primary home [Of 6 Acres] is up for sale-once this has finalised then we are onto our next stage of our lives. Stage 1 have a plan, Stage 2 was to procure property, Stage 3 basic infrastructure etc Stage 4 sell our Home of 18 years etc we are up to stage 4 Now.

Maroo Wildlife Refuge

2009-01-10T18:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Aussie Wildlife Blog

Our 1st Blogg

2009-01-10T18:25:00.000-08:00

Hello and Welcome to Maroo Wildlife Refuge. With my wife Jo I hope to bring you into our life of Western Australian wildlife rehabilitation. We mainly work with the Western Grey Kangaroo, Red and White Tailed Black Cockatoo, Wyolies, Numbats and more.