Animal Rescue Requires Protection of Volunteers
Wild Truths: Julie’s Story
Episode Summary Julie, a seasoned wildlife carer and shooter from WIRES Central West Branch, reveals the intense pressure volunteers face when euthanising injured wildlife — often with little support, few resources, and bureaucratic red tape. Despite her passion and leadership role, Julie describes a system stretched too thin, where the emotional burden, logistical failures, and lack of communication from WIRES HQ are leaving carers isolated and at risk.
Her message? If we want to protect animals, we must first protect the people on the front line.
Key Issues Julie Raised:
• Severe shortage of trained shooters, especially across large rural areas
• Restrictive approval rules – only 5 shooters per branch, no flexibility
• No police support – local authorities unwilling to euthanise injured wildlife
• Poor communication from WIRES management
• Lack of vet support, particularly in rural and remote areas
• Mental health impact – trauma from repeated euthanasia without debriefs or support
• Inflexible and distressing training models – current shooter course described as “traumatic”
• Resource denial – branches struggle to get approval for essential items like Thermal Scopes
• Underfunding – carers personally covering costs of milk, vet bills, ammo
• Volunteer burnout – hard to retain or attract carers when support is lacking
Julie’s Suggestions for Change:
• Decentralise shooter coverage to reduce burnout
• Offer online shooter training theory to minimise trauma
• Allow non-carers to become approved shooters
• Increase mental health resources tailored to wildlife carers
• Remove red tape around funding approval
• Respect and empower local branches to allocate their own funds
• Create a culture that genuinely values and listens to volunteers
• Improve transparency and communication between branches and head office
Why It Matters:
Without urgent change, experienced carers like Julie — and the animals they serve — are being left behind. This isn’t sustainable. Julie’s story calls for a cultural shift in WIRES:
• Prioritise people, not politics
• Fund essential gear
• Provide mental health care
• Make volunteering sustainable
Take Action:
• Vote at the upcoming SGM to help create change
• Share this episode with volunteers and decision-makers
• Speak up – your voice matters
• Support carers – emotionally, practically, and financially
Listen. Reflect. Reform. Together, we can build a WIRES that works for wildlife and the people who care for them.
Listen to Julie’s story. Share it with someone who cares. Your voice — and your vote — matter.
