Australian bushfires: 000 call takers sew for injured wildlife
They did an invaluable job during the recent bushfires, but these 000 call takers are also working to help in the aftermath. They’re using their break times to help displaced furry friends.
East
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They are often the first point of contact for anyone in trouble, and now Burwood East’s 000 call takers are also dedicating their time to help animals affected by fire.
A group of call takers have taken to using their shift breaks to craft items that will help care for wildlife injured or orphaned in the recent bushfire crisis.
They go from answering calls that save lives and direct emergency services to sewing, cutting and crocheting when they get a breather.
The project is being heralded by Shauna McCartan, who has mustered up a team of creative colleagues.
They’ve been sewing different sized pouches for kangaroo joeys to sleep in while they’re in care and crocheting nests for baby birds and possums.
“The slings simulate hanging in their mum’s pouch,” Ms McCartan said.
“Each pouch has an outer bag made from a woollen blanket, and two cotton or flannelette liners, so it’s a fair bit of work.”
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Most of the pouches and slings will be sent to an animal rescue shelter in Bairnsdale, while some will be sent to the Animal Rescue Craft Guild hub to be distributed where they are needed.
Before she got her Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority workmates on board, Ms McCartan also made and sent 18 bat wraps to Bomaderry in NSW late last year.
“It’s great to be able to do something practical to help the wildlife, and the things we’re making will be useful now and for a long time into the future,” she said.