NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) is a non-profit Wildlife Rescue group, and the largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation charity in Australia.
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Their mission is to actively rehabilitate and preserve Australian wildlife and inspire others to do the same, says WIRES volunteer Tina Birtles.
As a new WIRES Mid North Coast (MNC) rescuer/carer located in Nambucca Heads, Mrs Birtles has met "many wonderful people in our community, who go above and beyond to assist our native animals when they are in need of care".
Recently Mrs Birtles met Valla Beach resident Kaz, who called WIRES for assistance with a possum sheltering in her verandah with a significant injury, Kaz was concerned he was suffering.
"On my arrival I reviewed the possum and saw his injury would require treatment, I sought guidance from an experienced WIRES possum coordinator located in Korora who provided a plan of action," Mrs Birtles said.
It was a beautiful Mountain Brushtail Possum or commonly known as a short-eared Brushtail Possum, 'Bobuck'.
"On hearing the species of possum Kaz named him 'Bo', although this possum is a wild animal and was not use to human contact he sought refuge in her verandah," Mrs Birtles said.
All wildlife that is sick or injured will need to be assessed by a vet before coming into care. Fortunately the vet assessment of Bo's injuries were positive, with treatment and care he could be released.
"Many of our native animals are territorial and it's critical for the animal to be released where they are found, to ensure their best chance of survival, however sometimes the area they are rescued from is not safe for their return, then another suitable area would be chosen."
Trained WIRES carer at Bellingen, Yvonne (pictured with Kaz), was available to care for Bo until he was ready for release.
"Recently one early evening Bo was returned to Kaz's home for release. A happy outcome, sometimes it is not always the case but it's important we help where we can. As you can see it was a Mid North Coast team effort," Mrs Birtles said.
"Living in our beautiful Mid North Coast we all enjoy this environmentally diverse region. Our responsibilities are not only ensuring we look after our waterways, plants and trees but importantly, we have amazing native animals we need to consider as we share their environment.
"Existing side by side with our native animals is sometimes challenging for both humans and animals, but we should commit to preserving these national treasures. Fortunately, we have a dedicated and caring group of volunteers who are trained and prepared to rescue and care for our wildlife."
If you are unsure of what to do with sick, injured or orphaned wildlife call NSW WIRES: 1300 094 737 or download the Wildlife Rescue App, rescue help is available 365 days a year.
WIRES MNC needs more volunteers, training is provided with ongoing support and guidance from experienced WIRES members is always close by. For more information on how you can volunteer or help visit www.wires.org.au.