Learn About Handling Animal Emergencies This Summer at Healesville Sanctuary

By Judy Robertson

Healesville, Australia - These school holidays will be a celebration of courage, survival and healing following the Victorian bushfires giving us all a chance to say “thank you” to many ordinary people who did extraordinary things.

Meet our Vet heroes as well as firefighters, ambulance officers and police – all those who kept us safe and saved lives during the Victorian bushfires.

Healesville Sanctuary faced one of its greatest challenges during and following Black Saturday. Come and hear some of the amazing stories that are now part of our history – and say thanks to our heroes. 

What’s On
Meet our Veterinary Heroes Visitors can see the daily action of a working wildlife hospital and find out about our role during the fires and learn about inspirational patients’ stories. Some bushfire-affected animals still remain in our care. Check their progress with Dr Rupert and the vet team.

Meet Our Emergency Services Heroes Give a pat on the back to our fire fighters and paramedics, check out ambulances, fire trucks, mini fire-fighting helicopter and meet CFA Mascot Captain Koala. Learn how to keep safe in emergencies. Lots of fun and educational activities.

Learn about our special Wildlife Hero Following the devastating Victorian bushfires, injured and homeless wildlife were admitted to the Sanctuary for critical care. Visitors to the Sanctuary these school holidays will learn more about the impact of the bushfires on native animals such as Roy the Leadbeater’s Possum who survived with a little help from his friends. Learn what you can do to help this very special little hero and his friends.

Furry Friend health checks Kids, bring in your teddy or favourite furry friend for a health check and receive an official Certificate of Good Health from one of our vets - plus a Wildlife Connect sticker and a Furry Friend chocolate bar sponsored by Cadbury!

Wildlife puzzles and games A giant board game for kids of all ages! Follow the journey of an injured animal to the Australian Wildlife Health Centre then help prepare it for rehabilitation and release. That way, everyone’s a winner!

Wildlife Emergency Challenge 1pm and 2.30pm (two sessions daily) Ready, set go! Be a Hero for Wildlife! Accept the challenge for a fun, winter warm-up race to rescue and treat our “wildlife patients” and deliver them safe and sound back to their habitat. (Weather dependent). Furry Friend chocolate bars as prizes!

Art display Enjoy drawings and messages of hope and inspiration during the bushfires sent by children in Louisville USA.

Healesville Sanctuary is open every day of the school holidays between 9am and 5pm. A family pass is great value at $53.90.