To Our Members and Supporters

Let’s Reflect

If you saw something you loved losing its way, would you walk away — or stand up for it?
As volunteer carers, we’re all here for the same reason: to care for sick and injured wildlife and improve welfare outcomes.

Even if your voice shook, would you speak out?

We ask you to think deeply: if you see WIRES turning away from its core mission — to rescue and care for wildlife — would you stand up to help protect those who cannot protect themselves?

We believe you would, because we are one of you.

Who We Are

There’s a myth that our numbers are small — but the truth is, we are many.
We are carers, rescuers, and long-time members united by one purpose: to uphold the highest standards of wildlife care through fairness, transparency, and good governance.

Since the 2020 fires, we’ve stood shoulder to shoulder — tending the injured, nursing the orphaned, and giving our time, homes, and hearts.
WIRES was never perfect, but it worked because of us — the volunteers.
We believed in the difference we were making.

What Changed

In recent years, many carers have felt silenced, sidelined, or even penalised for asking questions.
New policies and governance changes have shifted WIRES’ focus away from wildlife care and volunteer support towards centralised control and funding priorities.

When the new constitution was proposed, over 1,200 members sought clarity about WIRES’ direction — and were suddenly removed from membership.
Left without a voice, we turned to the law for fairness and transparency.
Every decision so far has reinforced what we stand for: openness, accountability, and collaboration.

Our Concern

Member concerns continue to be ignored.
Policies are introduced without consultation.
The focus appears to have shifted from the wellbeing of wildlife and volunteers to governance and control.

It is not right to take away a member’s voice simply for asking questions.
The story that follows (see “Timeline of Key Events”) shows how and when this shift began — and why so many long-term volunteers felt they had to speak up and ultimately became the Reclaim WIRES movement.

Standing Together

If any member is struggling or needs support, please reach out.
We are here — democratic, respectful, and welcoming.

We stand together for what WIRES was always meant to be:
a community built on compassion, care, and courage — for our wildlife.