The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital (NRWH) has officially opened its doors, marking a major milestone for native animal care in the region. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on Monday 28 July 2025, was led by The Hon. Janelle Saffin MP, Member for Lismore and Minister for Small Business, Recovery, and the North Coast.
A heartfelt Welcome to Country by Ricky Cook set the tone for a celebration of community spirit, resilience, and shared purpose. Guests included wildlife carers, volunteers, veterinary professionals, local supporters, and government representatives — all of whom played a role in making the hospital a reality.
Speakers reflected on the long journey to completion, including Madeleine Faught, Dr Megan Kearney, Dr Robert Kooyman, and Treasurer Ninian Gemmell.
“The pain of the challenges, the delays, the weather, COVID, are now behind us… We’re already working with a lot of animals, so there is a lot to be happy for,” Ms Faught said.
Minister Saffin praised the hospital’s grassroots origins:
“It’s 100% community-owned, community-driven, and community-run… A lot of good things happen when like-minded people come together to meet a need — and that’s what happened here.”
Dr Megan Kearney emphasised the importance of rapid treatment, noting that animals assessed within 24 hours of rescue have far better survival outcomes. NRWH General Manager Bronte Potts called the opening “a dream come true” and a “game-changer” for the region.
Since its soft launch earlier in 2025, the Wollongbar facility has already treated over 360 sick, injured, and orphaned native animals. With Stage One complete, Stage Two plans include a dedicated pathology and diagnostics laboratory and new outdoor enclosures for animals in intermediate care and rehabilitation.
The NRWH now stands as a vital resource for wildlife conservation and emergency response across the Northern Rivers and beyond.
