Injured kangaroos set to thrive thanks to Kimberley Community Grant

A Derby wildlife rescue group has successfully rehabilitated and released several injured and at-risk animals, thanks to a $4,000 grant from Water Corporation and Lions Club of Broome.

Last year, Derby Native Wildlife received a Kimberley Community Grant to train local volunteers and establish a dedicated kangaroo release pen, to care for sick, orphaned, injured or displaced kangaroos before being released back into the natural environment.

The kangaroo release pen features cyclone and predator-proof fencing, an abundance of shade and fresh running water, and provides a safe, nurturing environment for the animals to be cared for by volunteers.

The release pen was completed in late 2021, and since then more than 30 kangaroos, euros and other marsupials have been rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Five local volunteers have been successfully trained in transporting and handling wildlife, and fencing and pen maintenance.

Water Corporation North West Regional Manager Sharon Broad said it was a privilege to be able to help organisations such as Derby Native Wildlife to deliver local projects that contribute to the protection and sustainability of the local environment.

“We’re very proud to be partnering with Derby Native Wildlife to support their kangaroo release pen, which will provide ongoing, critical care for local wildlife in a specialised safe and natural environment.

“Supporting projects like this, which provide care and support for the local environment, is exactly what the Kimberley Community Grants Scheme is all about,” Ms Broad said.

“It’s fantastic to see the positive outcomes being delivered, not only for the animals, but for the volunteers who have enriched their skillsets and understanding of how to care for kangaroos, euros and other local fauna.”