About The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital

Protecting Australia’s native wildlife in the heart of the Northern Rivers

The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital (NRWH) is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the care, treatment, and rehabilitation of orphaned, sick, and injured wildlife. Nestled in Wollongbar, NSW, one of Australia’s most ecologically diverse regions, our hospital provides critical support to wildlife carers and the broader conservation network. 

With rising numbers of animal injuries caused by habitat loss, road accidents, and climate events, NRWH plays a pivotal role in addressing the growing demand for specialised veterinary services. We treat a wide range of species including wallabies, koalas, echidnas, native birds, possums, gliders, and all reptiles – all of which require expert care to ensure their survival and eventual return to the wild.

We are proudly 100% community-owned, managed by a volunteer board. Treatment at our hospital is free for all animals, but we rely on government funding, grants, fundraising, and sponsorship to continue our work in saving and rehabilitating our precious wildlife.

Our Mission and Values

Our Mission

1. Operate a First-Class Wildlife Hospital:

We provide expert, compassionate care for orphaned, sick, and injured wildlife, giving them the best chance to recover and thrive back in the wild.

2. Advance the Natural Environment:

We advocate for the preservation of natural habitats and work with the community to protect local wildlife and their ecosystems.

3. Improve Community Knowledge & Engagement:

Through education and outreach, we strive to enhance the community’s understanding of wildlife conservation and inspire collective action.

4. Grow the Wildlife Movement:

We support local conservation projects and collaborate with other environmental initiatives to create a lasting impact for our native species.

Our Values

Compassion:

We care deeply for all wildlife and the people who protect them.

Collaboration:

Working together with carers, vets, researchers, and the community is at the core of what we do.

Integrity:

We are committed to ethical practices, transparency, and responsible stewardship.

Sustainability:

We protect wildlife and their habitats through environmentally sustainable practices.

Education:

We believe in empowering others with the knowledge and tools to protect our natural world.

Our Promise and Commitments:

  • We will not compromise our objectives of first and foremost treating injured wildlife and working with local care groups.
  • We take advice from the Veterinary Advisory Committee (VAC), a sub-committee of the Board including external appointees, who recommend best practice for wildlife on all matters related to the construction and operation of the NRWH.
  • Our business Plan has been informed on advice and suggestions from local wildlife care groups.
  • We are a public company governed by a multi skilled professional Board and accountable to our member base.
  • We are a registered charity with ACNC.
  • We are listed on the Register of Environmental Organisation (REO) under which our Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status is conferred.
  • We are independent of any animal sanctuary or zoo.
  • We spearheaded the Northern Rivers Wildlife Network (NRWN) and will continue to advocate for a regional approach to wildlife care treatment that will benefit all wildlife care and wildlife hospital groups in the Northern Rivers.
  • We will position ourselves to train vets so that they are properly qualified to treat wildlife and we will provide a significant educational and advocacy presence.
  • We have established strategic partnerships with local community organisations.
  • The NRWH Board has established positive relationships with many members of parliament and instrumentalities of government, evidenced by the grant of Crown Land for the NRWH.

Resources and Documents

For those who want to learn more about our governance, finances, or strategic plans, visit our Resources Page to download our Constitution, Annual Reports, Financial Statements and more.

Our Journey

The timeline of how NRWH became a reality:

2018

Discussions begin among local vets, conservationists, and business leaders about the urgent need for a dedicated wildlife hospital in the Northern Rivers.

2019

The first formal NRWH committee is formed, bringing together key advocates for wildlife care.

2020

Following the Black Summer bushfires, the need for NRWH becomes even more urgent, sparking widespread community and governmental support.

2021

After securing funding from both government bodies and private donors, planning for the hospital’s construction begins.

2023

Construction of the hospital is underway.

2024

The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital prepares to open its doors, ushering in a new era for wildlife care in the region.

Supporting the Community and Beyond

NRWH is not just a hospital—it’s a critical link in the Northern Rivers’ conservation efforts. We collaborate closely with local wildlife carers, veterinarians, and environmental groups as well our local, state and federal politicians to provide a holistic approach to wildlife care and rehabilitation. Our work extends beyond the hospital walls, offering training programs, resources, and education to help the community better understand the importance of protecting our region’s unique biodiversity.

NRWH is committed to becoming a leading hub for research, education, and advocacy in wildlife care, not just for the Northern Rivers but for all of Australia.

Looking Ahead

Our long-term goals include developing community outreach initiatives, becoming a leader in veterinary research, and expanding our services to support more animals and carers across the Northern Rivers.

Our Visitors Centre and Work Experience programs will also soon offer exciting opportunities for the public to engage directly with our work and learn more about how to contribute to wildlife conservation. Sign up for our Newsletter to be the first to know when these program will begin.

Orphaned koala being bottled fed by a wildlife carer

Double Your Impact This Christmas – Help Save Wildlife!

Wildlife rescues are at an all-time high, and we’re urgently raising funds for life-saving equipment and supplies.

Thanks to a generous sponsor, every dollar you donate will be matched, doubling the impact of your gift.

Will you help grant wildlife wishes for Christmas?