On 5 October, a caller reported a young koala on the Hunter Expressway near Buchanan. Koala Coordinator Alexis rushed to the scene, where two caring members of the public — Tamara and Laurie — had already moved the injured koala safely off the road. Hunter Wildlife Rescue members Nick, Alexis and Jim completed the rescue and transported her to Somersby Animal Hospital, where X-rays revealed a severely broken foot, along with head and hip bruising.

Now named Tamara in honour of her rescuer, she has been in care with Alexis for seven weeks, requiring frequent vet checks and specialist treatment. She recently underwent major surgery in Sydney to pin her foot, performed by Dr Allen, and may still need further operations.

Tamara is just one of many koalas currently in care, with record numbers arriving as urbanisation increases. Although our vets generously provide discounts and volunteer countless hours, we still face significant ongoing veterinary bills. As a fully volunteer-run organisation, we rely entirely on donations from the public to continue this life-saving work.All donations over $2 are tax-deductible.

We’re raising funds to help cover Tamara’s surgeries, treatment and rehabilitation. Any funds not used for Tamara’s care will go directly toward vet bills for other wildlife currently in care and those who will need us in the future.

Every donation makes a real and immediate difference to Tamara and the many animals fighting for a second chance.