Not-for-profit Great Southern projects boosted by Animal Welfare Grant Program

Three Great Southern community-based animal welfare groups will put State Government funding to good use after being announced as recipients of grants last week.

Albany-based Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary and Healing Hands Wildlife Care Great Southern were allocated $4260 and $3331 respectively, while the Shire of Kojonup has received $13,725.

Amaris will use the funding to refurbish an existing enclosure use to rehabilitate western ringtail possums.

Equipment will be purchased by Healing Hands to better allow it to rescue, rehabilitate and release western ringtail possums and western gray kangaroos.

The Shire of Kojonup funding will allow it to refurbish an existing building to be used as a cat-holding facility.

The grants were among 24 recipients announced by Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan as part of the Animal Welfare Grant Program’s second round.

Nearly $550,000 is being shared among the not-for-profit projects with the State Government program supporting fostering or rehoming of companion animals, rehabilitating wildlife and providing low-cost animal health or veterinary care.

“Companion animals and wildlife play a significant role in the lives of Western Australians,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“There was significant interest in this funding round, highlighting the passion, commitment and demand from community groups wanting to provide the best possible care for animals in need.

“We commend the WA community and these dedicated community groups who do so much to support the health and welfare of companion animals and displaced or injured wildlife.”