Activist Max Ritchie starts club, raises funds for Toowoomba Koala Wildlife Rescue to protect critically endangered animals

He may only be nine-years-old but age is just a number to this passionate Toowoomba advocate who has started an initiative designed to save the lives of critically endangered animals.

Whether it’s young Swedish activist Greta Thunberg or Toowoomba’s own Max Ritchie, young people are making an immeasurable impact on the world.

Despite being just nine-years-old, little Max pioneered a grassroots initiative which led to raising more than $1000 for Toowoomba Koala Wildlife Rescue.

The organisation used the funds to purchase a new rescue pole, with its team of volunteers and wildlife carers receiving at least two calls a week to save distressed koalas in Toowoomba, Highfields and the surrounds.

“I read The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Peculiar Pets and it had so many critically endangered animals from Toowoomba,” Max said.

“The book made me start thinking of how I could help keep them alive and not extinct.”

Max Ritchie, pictured with proud mum Jessica Ritchie, formed an endangered species club at school and raised over $700 for Toowoomba Koala and Wildlife Rescue. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Motivated by his desire to protect endangered species, Max founded a club at school called Save Endangered Species, where 10 students meet weekly during lunch breaks to discuss their love for animals and ways to help them.

Club members also hosted several fundraisers including a free dress day, over the past few months, to help raise funds and awareness for the rescue organisation.

“I was a bit emotional and happy about (raising so much money),” Max said.

“Mum and dad were so surprised and proud of me.

“Seeing how I could create change was cool.”

Volunteer wildlife carer Judi Gray introduced Max to a rescued koala named Kellie and her baby, to show him the positive impact his contributions had made on local wildlife.

Max Ritchie formed an endangered species club at school and raised over $700 for Toowoomba Koala and Wildlife Rescue. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The pair were admitted to the wildlife hospital for two months, after they were diagnosed with conjunctivitis and have since been released onto a safe farm in Meringandan.

“One pole costs $1000 and we have been sharing it among three rescuers,” Ms Gray said.

“The contribution from Max and his community is truly remarkable and we are immensely grateful for their generosity, which allows us to provide better care and support to koalas in need.”

Max said the club is determining new ways to fundraise and make a difference next year.

Signs a koala may be in distress includes swollen or sore eyes, prolonged inactivity and being near dangerous areas such as roads and other animals.

The public are encouraged to report this to RSPCA by phoning 1300 264 625.