Zoo event to raise funds for wombat rescue this Saturday
Published on 22 November 2018
Rockhampton Regional Council is inviting all to enjoy a day at the Zoo this Saturday, and help raise funds for wombat rescue, rehabilitation and research.
The fundraising event will kick off at the zoo entrance from 7am and will include wombat themed arts and crafts, raffles and prizes, and a sausage sizzle. Rockhampton Regional Libraries will also be hosting two Storytime sessions at the event with a special appearance from local author Pam Garven, who will read 'Winkle Wombat's Secrets' which features animals from the zoo.
With southern hairy nosed wombats a part of the Rockhampton Zoo family, Chair of Council’s Parks Committee, Councillor Cherie Rutherford, said it’s a fundraiser near and dear to all staff.
“The proceeds from the day will go to Safe Haven - a Mount Larcom property dedicated to the rehabilitation and rescue of native Australian animals,” Cr Rutherford said.
“They are also a world leader in southern hairy-nosed wombat research and have developed a breeding program aimed at increasing their population. We’re really supportive of their work, as we know firsthand just how wonderful these animals are.
“One of our well known and much loved animals at the Zoo is Donna, our southern hairy nosed wombat.
“Like all of our animals, Donna has a special story of her own – brought to the Zoo as a rescue animal in 2000. She has nerve damage to her lower spine, possibly caused by a motor vehicle when she was in the wild. She isn’t in pain, but as a result Donna walks with a real waddle. She would not survive in the wild due to her limited mobility, but here at the zoo she receives all the care and attention she deserves.
“You’ll often spot her sunbaking and lying belly-up on the grass outside her den and going on walks around the zoo when the weather is cooler.
“Come along on Saturday - say hi to Donna, and all of our beautiful animals - and enjoy a great day out for the family.
“There will also be opportunity to purchase professional photos of all our zoo animals as part of the event, taken by one of our very talented keepers.”
Pam Garven, author of Winkle Wombat's Secret, said she was inspired to first write the story 28 years ago when her son Zac became interested in wombats after visiting Rockhampton Zoo.
"I am thrilled and delighted to see my children's book “Winkle Wombat’s Secret” finally in print.
"After having this story sit gathering dust all these years, I decided I could illustrate it with my own photographs taken here at the zoo.
"I am very proud of my book and look forward to reading it to other children.
"Wombats are such interesting animals and we are very fortunate to be able to see them at our free Rockhampton Zoo."
The Wombat Fundraiser event will be held from 7am until 3pm. As part of the First Five Forever program Rockhampton Regional Libraries will hosting a Dad’s Read with Col May at 11:15am and our special guest and local author, Pam Garven will be reading her new release children’s book “Winkle Wombat’s Secret’ at 10:30am.