Ruth Lewis has been a full-time carer of orphaned and injured native animals for a decade. 'It started ten years ago. I read an article in the newspaper about caring for orphaned animals. So I made a phone call to Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services (QPWS) …….After that phone call, my job has been caring for animals until they are strong enough to be released back into the wild.' She has cared for hundreds of animals, from kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, possums, to echidnas. Animals come from the Lockyer Valley area and as far away as Ipswich, Toogoolawah and Warwick. Ruth's wildlife rescues stem from the three greatest native animals threats - habitat loss, road works, and dog attacks. Other scenarios are car accidents, barbwire fences and power lines. 'Unfortunately, there are times the animals can not be saved. Kangaroos involved in car accidents may have an injury that is not fixable so they have to be euthanased.' Ruth's family often help her with animal rescues and care. Ruth's voluntary work dedication is obviously balanced by the reward of releasing healthy animals. Interestingly, animals play a caring role themselves in other voluntary programs, such as Riding for Disabled, Guide Dogs, Hospital Pet Visit Programs and rescue operations. The relationship between humans, animals and healing continues to inspire many volunteers and organisations in our community.
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By David Nguy, Volunteer Writer, Volunteering
Queensland August 2001