Charlie’s Unforgettable Journey: A Story of Love and Loss

 

Introduction

In the quiet days before Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, when my role was that of a home carer, a tiny pinkie boy named Charlie entered my life. Charlie, a Western Grey Kangaroo, weighed just 1 kilogram, the first little boy I raised. He arrived alongside his little sister, Coco. Their bond would soon become the stuff of legends, woven into the fabric of our heart.

The Arrival of Caree and Cruz

As the days passed our kangaroo family expanded. Caree joined Charlie and Coco, and then came Cruz. His playful spirit brought joy to our days, and he and Charlie became inseparable. Their bond transcended mere companionship; it was a symphony of loyalty and shared adventures.

A Choice Between Wild and Home

Life took an unexpected turn when we moved to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary. Cruz, ever the wild-hearted explorer, decided it was time to roam free. He left our sanctuary to embrace the wild side, while Charlie remained close to home. Charlie, a devoted “Mummy’s boy,” preferred the safety of our care, nestled among the familiar trees and grasses.

Cruz’s Return and Charlie’s Devotion

Cruz returned one day, his arm seriously injured. A makeshift pen became his refuge, a place where he could heal. And there, waiting faithfully at the gate every evening, was Charlie. At 5 PM sharp, he’d hop into the pen, keeping Cruz company through the night. Their bond deepened, and Charlie’s gentle presence comforted Cruz during those long, healing days.

The Summer Shade and Unwavering Love

Summer arrived, and the pen lacked sufficient shade for both kangaroos. Charlie chose to stay outside, lying in the shade of the tree near the pen, while keeping a watchful eye on Cruz. Breakfast with the others, then back to Cruz’s side—Charlie’s routine never wavered. His love knew no bounds, even when the sun beat down relentlessly.

The Heartbreaking Goodbye

Cruz healed and stepped out of the pen, but Charlie remained. His release attempts became the talk of his supporters—Release #1, Release #2, and so on. But one morning, Charlie returned, hunched in pain. His eyes spoke of suffering. I contacted the vet, and injectable pain relief followed. That night, under the stars, I slept next to Charlie, praying that he would heal.

The Final Decision

The next day, the vet arrived. Charlie’s internal injuries were a mystery, but they were too severe. We made the painful decision—to let him go. Cradled in my arms, he took his last breath. Tears flowed for my beloved Charlie, and guilt weighed heavy. Could I have done more? I’ll forever cherish our nights under the stars, our bond unbreakable.

Conclusion

Charlie, oh how I loved you. Your story lives on—a testament to the extraordinary connections forged in the heart of our sanctuary. May your spirit leap among the eucalyptus leaves, forever a part of our wild family.  Cherish's bub Connie had a little boy and I named him Charlie in your memory 🦘🌿💔

Coco and Charlie

Charlie, Coco and Caree

After Cruz left Charlie needed a new sparing partner

Release #10

The day Charlie came home.  I thought he was just exhausted, but he had been hurt.

Charlie and Coco

Best Buddie - Charlie and Cruz

Lily's Leap and Poppy's Perseverance

Lily’s Leap: A Journey from Tragedy to Triumph

In the quiet hours of a fateful night, a tiny heartbeat fought against the odds. Weighing merely 200 grams, Lily, a kangaroo joey, was found clinging to life in her mother’s pouch after a tragic accident. Her mother, struck by a car, held on just long enough for a kind-hearted driver to rush her to the vet. Despite the efforts to save her, Lily’s mother passed away, leaving the tiny joey still attached to the teat.

Enter Carole Gamsby, a name synonymous with hope at Amaris Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary. Carole gently detached Lily, and though the joey initially lost weight, dropping to a fragile 180 grams, her spirit never waned. Under Carole’s tender care, Lily began to thrive, her weight climbing steadily until she reached a robust 7kg, and she came to live at Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of life and the dedication of those who serve as its guardians.

Lily’s antics as a ‘milk fiend’ have become legendary at the sanctuary. With an uncanny ability to count every drop of milk in her bottle, she ensures not a single drop goes to waste. Now at Karlup Animal Sanctuary after finishing her bottle, she finishes everyone else's and then she hops over to Claire, her eyes sparkling with mischief, as if asking, “Is there more?” Her playful spirit brings joy to all who meet her.

Poppy’s Perseverance: The Miracle of a Second Chance

Poppy’s tale is one of sheer willpower. Found after three harrowing days in her deceased mother’s pouch, she arrived at Lyn Manuel’s home in a dire state—unresponsive, without a discernible heartbeat, and frighteningly cold. But Lyn refused to give up. Through persistent efforts of rubbing, warm water immersion, and even mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, Poppy’s life flickered back. A twitch of her leg was all it took to renew their hope, and for 45 minutes, they fought for her life together.

Miraculously, Poppy pulled through and became a sister to Lily.  Regular vet checks ensured she met each milestone, and now at a healthy 6kg, she was ready to embrace her wild side at Amaris Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary. Her final chapter is now at Karlup Animal Sanctuary, where she’ll take the steps toward a soft release back into the wild.

These stories of Lily and Poppy are more than just tales of survival; they are narratives of compassion, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of life. They remind us that miracles can indeed happen, with a bit of love and a lot of determination. As they prepare for their next chapters, we celebrate the incredible work of Carole Gamsby, Lyn Manuel, and all the unsung heroes at Amaris and Karlup Sanctuaries. Here’s to many more stories of hope and healing.

Lily and Poppy Best friends and sisters

Lily enjoying some Grevillea

A Heartwarming Story of Rescue and Trust: Marli’s Journey

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, I returned home from a heartfelt visit to my mother. 3 November 2022.  It was as I was preparing dinner,  that a tiny, velvet-furred joey caught my eye, clumsily attempting to nestle into a pouch that wasn’t his. My heart melted at the sight; such innocence and vulnerability were impossible to ignore.

But something was amiss. The pouch belonged to Jake, a male kangaroo, not a nurturing mother. With a sense of urgency, I raced outside, scanning the surroundings for the joey’s mother, but she was nowhere to be found. The night was drawing in, bringing with it the threat of predators and a biting cold that no tiny creature should endure alone. Without hesitation, I scooped the little one into my arms and brought him to safety, tucking him into a warm, makeshift pouch within the sanctuary of my home.

Morning light brought no sign of the missing mother, and my heart sank with the realisation that this was Maisie’s baby, Marli. Maisie, along with her first joey, Maxx, had vanished without a trace. I devised a plan with Claire, my mentor, to reunite mother and child should Maisie return. We would put her in the joey pen, gently sedate her and place Marli back into the comfort of her pouch, hoping for a bond to rekindle.

For two days, I walked miles, my eyes searching every bush and hollow for a sign of Maisie, but she remained elusive. On the third day, the difficult decision was made to take Marli into our care. The likelihood of Maisie accepting him now was slim, and the risk of rejection too great.

Marli found companionship with Bandit and Benson, two other joeys in our care. Raising Marli was a joy unlike any other; he was affectionate, cuddly, and an absolute delight. Even when Bandit suffered a broken tail, Marli and Benson would venture out together, always returning to comfort their injured friend. Marli’s love knew no bounds; he still runs to me, arms outstretched, seeking the warmth of a cuddle. He waits patiently at the pen gate for any leftover milk, his eyes filled with hope and trust.

The mystery of why Maisie left Marli at my back door may never be solved, but I am eternally grateful for the trust she placed in me. Perhaps, in her own way, she knew I would provide the care she could not. Maisie has since welcomed another joey, Marty, into the world and has raised him successfully.

Marli’s story is a testament to the resilience of nature and the unspoken bond between humans and wildlife. It’s a reminder that sometimes, trust is all we have, and in the end, it can make all the difference.

I can’t help but marvel at how much Marli resembles his mum – not just in his soft, grey fur or the distinctive markings that grace his face, but in the very essence of his being, from the tilt of his head, and every thoughtful gaze into the distance,

This blog post is dedicated to all the wildlife carers out there who open their hearts and homes to creatures in need. Your compassion and dedication do not go unnoticed. Together, we can make a difference, one rescue at a time.

If you’re inspired by Marli’s story and wish to support our wildlife rescue efforts, please consider donating or volunteering at your local wildlife sanctuary. Every little bit helps us continue this vital work.

Donations can be made to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary

BSB 633000 Account 172206732
or
PayPal.me/AmarisWildlife

Marli centre with big brothers Bandit and Benson

Finally found Maisie and Maxx at the end of day 3.  They were both safe and ok

My precious boy

Totally unaware they are Mum and son, this was a special moment for me

A Journey of Compassion: Beth’s Wildlife Rescue Mission

Early Saturday morning, as the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, a journey of compassion was about to unfold in the vast landscapes of Western Australia. Beth, a seasoned wildlife carer and medic, embarked on a mission from Tambellup to Munglinup, a quaint town nestled in the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

First stop was to meet Esperance Roo Haven's, Lynn, who waited with four precious joeys in need of a new sanctuary. The air was crisp, and the anticipation was high as Beth prepared for the day ahead, knowing that the lives of these young kangaroos were about to change forever.

Maddie and Noelle, two resilient girls weighing around 10 kg each, were destined for Karlup Animal Sanctuary. There, they would embark on the next chapter of their lives, preparing for a future release back into the wild. Their journey was not just a relocation but a step closer to freedom.

Meanwhile, Katie and Kenny, two delicate pinkies, found their temporary home at Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary. Under the watchful eye of Jaffa, who would soon become their babysitter, they would spend the next 12 months growing into healthy and robust kangaroos.

The day’s adventure continued as Beth made her way to Ravensthorpe to meet Aletta and pick up Mr. Squiggles, now affectionately known as Noah. His new carers had traveled a staggering 600 km round trip from Bunbury to welcome him into their hearts and lives, a testament to the lengths we go for the creatures we love.

Despite some challenges with sedation, the transfer of the larger girls was a flurry of activity. Quick thinking and swift action ensured they were soon on their way to their new sanctuary. 

Sandy, with her nurturing touch, warmed milk and a heat pad, ready for the next leg of the journey, grabbed Noah and was soon on her way.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, marking the end of an eventful day, Beth’s exhaustion was palpable. Yet, it was overshadowed by the satisfaction of a job well done. Cool, calm, and collected, she had once again proven to be the ideal person for this mammoth task.

Beth’s unwavering confidence and level-headed approach to every challenge make her an invaluable treasure to Amaris and the wildlife community. Her dedication to transporting joeys from Perth and Esperance is a beacon of hope in the world of wildlife conservation.

So, here’s to Beth, a true champion of the wild, whose heart beats in unison with the land she loves and the animals she vows to protect. Thank you, Beth, for being the guardian angel of kangaroos.

This post is a tribute to the unsung heroes like Beth who dedicate their lives to wildlife care. Their stories inspire us to appreciate the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving the natural world for generations to come.

"Team Work makes the Dream Work"

Donations can be made to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary

BSB 633000 Account 172206732
or
PayPal.me/AmarisWildlife

Mr Sqiggles "Noah"

“A Pouch Full of Hope: Marnie’s Message to the World”

Under the vast, star-studded Australian sky, Marnie nestled in her mother’s warm pouch. The night air was crisp, and the scent of eucalyptus hung in the breeze. Her family gathered around, their silhouettes blending seamlessly with the landscape—a tight-knit group of kangaroos, bound by love and survival.

But that tranquil night would soon shatter.

Bright lights pierced the darkness, accompanied by the harsh clamor of human voices. The tranquility vanished, replaced by fear and confusion. Marnie’s Mumma stood protectively over her, her eyes wide with alarm. The shooting began—an onslaught of violence that tore through the peaceful scene.

One by one, Marnie’s family fell. Her cousins, her uncles, her aunts—all victims of the frenzied attack. Marnie’s Mumma fought valiantly, but the bullets found their mark. She collapsed, her life extinguished, and her body was unceremoniously dumped onto a heap of other fallen kangaroos.

Marnie, still safely tucked away in her mother’s pouch, trembled. The world had turned upside down, and she clung to the last remnants of warmth and safety. The night seemed endless, filled with terror and loss.

Then, a glimmer of hope emerged. The mail person—a figure unfamiliar to Marnie—approached cautiously. Their eyes widened as they noticed movement within the pouch. Marnie’s tiny head peeked out, eyes wide and vulnerable. The mail person’s heart swelled with compassion.

She gently lifted Marnie from her mother’s pouch, cradling her fragile body. She whispered soothing words, promising safety and care. Marnie’s trembling subsided as she clung to this unexpected rescuer.

And so, Marnie’s journey began. She was taken to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven where wounded souls found refuge. There, she received medical attention, nourishment, and love. Her new hooman Mumma marveled at her resilience—the way she clung to life despite the horrors she’d witnessed.

In the days that followed, Marnie explored her new home. She hopped tentatively, her tiny legs adjusting to the unfamiliar terrain. Other rescued animals surrounded her—possums, joeys, and birds—all bearing their own scars. Yet, together, they formed a tapestry of survival and hope.

Marnie’s Mumma remained in her heart—a memory etched in the fabric of her being. She vowed to honor her mother’s sacrifice by thriving, by becoming a symbol of resilience. And so, Marnie grew stronger, her spirit unyielding.

Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary became her advocate, her voice. They penned letters, not to politicians, but to hearts and minds across the nation, advocating for wildlife protection. Marnie’s story became a rallying cry—a plea for compassion, for sanctuaries like Amaris, for a world where kangaroos could graze without fear of bullets.

And so, in the quiet of the night, Marnie dreamed. She dreamed of a future where kangaroos roamed freely, where families thrived, and where no more pouches would be stained with blood. Her Mumma’s spirit guided her—a beacon of love and courage.

Marnie’s story of survival and resilience caught the attention of the Animal Protection Society NL, a renowned organization dedicated to ending the cruelty against wildlife. Moved by her journey, they featured Marnie in a powerful video campaign against the shooting of kangaroos. The video showcased Marnie’s life at Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary, juxtaposed with the harrowing night that changed her fate.

The footage was raw and emotive, capturing the hearts of viewers. It began with the serene beauty of the Australian bush, the calm before the storm. Then, it shifted to the chaos of that fateful night, the sounds of gunshots echoing, the flashes of light against the dark sky. But it was Marnie’s eyes, full of innocence and confusion, that truly spoke volumes.

As the video progressed, it painted a vivid picture of hope—Marnie’s recovery and the loving care she received at Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary. Her tentative hops turned into confident leaps, her eyes now gleaming with the promise of a safe future. The campaign called for an end to the senseless violence, urging for a collective stand to protect these majestic creatures.

The impact was immediate and profound. People from all walks of life responded, their voices joining in a chorus of advocacy. The video became a catalyst for change, inspiring many to support the cause and work towards a world where wildlife is respected and cherished.

Marnie’s tale, amplified by the Animal Protection Society NL, became more than just a story—it became a symbol of the urgent need for wildlife protection and the power of compassion to heal and transform lives.

Marnie’s legacy continues to grow, her story a beacon of hope in the fight against cruelty, and a testament to the sanctuary’s unwavering commitment to wildlife care. 🌟🦘❤️

Donations can be made to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary

BSB 633000 Account 172206732
or
PayPal.me/AmarisWildlife

The day Marnie arrived at Amaris

My beautiful Thumbsucker

Marnie - Mummy to Molly, Mago and Mystique (RIP)

Dear Politician - Urgent Call to Action: Support Our Wildlife Carers

As a passionate advocate for Australia’s unique wildlife, I implore you to take a stand and make a heartfelt promise to support our unsung heroes—the wildlife carers. These tireless individuals dedicate their lives to rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals, often working long hours with limited resources.

Why Wildlife Carers Matter:  

First Responders: Wildlife carers are the first responders when animals are injured or displaced due to natural disasters, habitat loss, or human impact.

Nurturing Guardians: They provide round-the-clock care, nursing fragile joeys, injured birds, and marsupials back to health.

Educators: Wildlife carers educate the public about conservation, fostering empathy and understanding for our native fauna.

Our Call to You: 

Funding and Resources: Commit to allocating additional funding and resources to wildlife carer organisations. These funds will directly impact the quality of care provided to our precious wildlife.

Legislation and Protection: Advocate for stronger legislation to protect wildlife habitats and ensure that carers have the legal support they need.

Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledge the vital role wildlife carers play in preserving our natural heritage. Celebrate their efforts publicly and encourage community involvement.

Your Pledge Matters: By making this pledge, you send a powerful message that Australia values its unique biodiversity. You stand alongside those who mend broken wings, soothe frightened joeys, and release rehabilitated animals back into the wild.

A Unified Effort: Lastly, we invite you to visit the sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres that dot our nation. Witness firsthand the compassion and commitment that these carers bring to their work. Let their stories inspire you, and let their needs guide your actions.

Together, we can ensure that the unique and precious fauna of Australia thrives. With your support, wildlife carers can continue their noble work, not just as unsung heroes, but as recognised and respected stewards of our natural legacy.

Donations can be made to Amaris Wildlife Sanctuary

BSB 633000 Account 172206732
or
PayPal.me/AmarisWildlife