Council supports world-first Rotary wildlife rescue

Scenic Rim Regional Council has endorsed a landmark lease for a pioneering community organisation, welcoming the Rotary Club of Southeast Queensland Wildlife Rescue Inc as tenants of a site at Tamborine.

The decision, endorsed at Council’s Ordinary Meeting yesterday, established the Scenic Rim as home to the first Rotary Club worldwide dedicated specifically to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

Community, Arts and Culture Portfolio Councillor Kerri Cryer said Council was proud to support the organisation’s groundbreaking model.

“This is a world-first for Rotary, and it’s happening right here in the Scenic Rim,” Cr Cryer said.

“Our region’s natural environment and rich biodiversity make us the perfect place for this visionary initiative.

"By approving this lease, Council has backed the hard work of local volunteers who are leading the way in wildlife rescue and care.”

The five-year lease will enable the volunteer-run organisation to transform a 6.1-hectare property into a hub for wildlife rescue, care, rehabilitation, and release.

Facilities will also be used for training and education, strengthening the group’s capacity to serve the community.

In just 12 months, the Rotary Club of Southeast Queensland Wildlife Rescue Inc responded to more than 1,600 rescue callouts across the region, assisting species from macropods and possums to birds, bats and reptiles.

The club has already secured a $35,000 Community Gambling Grant to purchase a dedicated rescue vehicle and received strong corporate and community backing to establish release facilities on-site.

Cr Cryer said the partnership highlighted Council’s commitment to empowering grassroots organisations that make a difference.

“By working together we’re ensuring our wildlife has a better chance at survival, and we’re showcasing the Scenic Rim as a leader in conservation and community innovation,” she said.