Darling Range Wildlife Shelter

Darling Range Wildlife Shelter (DRWS) was established in 2005. Based in Martin, a suburb in the Perth hills area, our purpose is to rehabilitate wildlife and promote biodiversity. Our vision is for communities which value and protect biodiversity. Each year we have approximately 2,000 wildlife admissions of which over 45% are successfully released.

DRWS was the first organization in WA to identify and successfully treat sarcoptic mange in quenda; a local priority species. Initial admissions were during September 2019 and currently number 150+ individuals. Researchers have used DRWS images, data and findings; with one DRWS volunteer submitting this project as their Master’s degree in Wildlife Health and Conservation, Murdoch University.

DRWS has played a significant role mopping up after bushfires. In November 2023, an uncontrolled fire started in Wanneroo, which over four days burnt through 2000ha. Over a dozen aircraft and 170 fire fighters were involved in controlling the fire; 18 homes and numerous other structures were lost. Nature reserves in the area totaled 1700ha. Black walks were conducted daily as a collaborative effort by local wildlife centers. From this fire alone, DRWS volunteers rescued and provided care to 50 displaced or injured wildlife; of the bobtails rescued most gave birth within weeks, doubling the number of in care. Close to 100 animals were euthanased and 250 found deceased. Volunteers had barely recovered from this event before a further blaze started in March 2024 in the City of Swan.

DRWS is powered by a diverse volunteer workforce of 150 volunteers. Volunteers, aged 16 to 85 years, give over 30,000 unpaid hours annually; undertaking the rescue, rehabilitation and release of native wildlife in need. Since 2018, we have had one paid staff member.

DRWS gives purpose to people who might otherwise struggle. According to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 51% of our volunteers reside in a local government area dominated by households ranking 1 on the Index of Relative Socio-economic Disadvantage. This lowest score is indicative of greater disadvantage measured by low income, low education or employment skill, unemployment and lack of financial resources.

Volunteering increases self-esteem, enhances skills and capabilities and improves the employability of people by providing training and boosting skills. Volunteers are mentally and physically healthier. Our activities bring together members of the community who may not otherwise have contact with each other, bridging ability, socioeconomic, educational and age divides.

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