Council takes over animal shelter as Kingaroy RSPCA closes

The Kingaroy RSPCA has officially closed its doors after two decades of operating in the South Burnett and deciding not to renew its lease with the council.

The Kingaroy RSPCA has officially closed its doors after two decades of supporting animals and animal lovers in the South Burnett region. Photo credit: Kingaroy RSPCA / Facebook

The Kingaroy RSPCA has officially closed its doors after two decades of supporting animals and animal lovers in the South Burnett.

The team took to social media to say goodbye and thank the local businesses that supported them, the families who believed in their mission, and the many volunteers who gave their time to the charity over the years.

“To our incredible community, volunteers, donors, and every person who has been part of this journey — your unwavering support, kindness, and generosity have meant the world to us. We couldn’t have done it without you,” the Facebook post read.

“It’s been an honour to serve our community, and while this is our final day, the memories, moments, and impact we’ve shared will last forever.”

They also took the opportunity to thank Stephen Upton and the team of staff at the Kingaroy Veterinary Surgery for their “dedication, compassion, and expertise” over the years they worked together.

“Whether it’s routine care or those unexpected emergencies, you’ve always gone above and beyond with patience, kindness, and professionalism,” the post read.

“Your hard work behind the scenes and on the front lines doesn’t go unnoticed — and we’re so grateful to have had your ongoing support.”

Earlier this year, the Kingaroy RSPCA announced it would shut up shop on June 30, 2025, after the organisation decided not to renew their lease with the South Burnett Regional Council who owns the animal management facility. Photo: Kingaroy RSPCA / Facebook

Earlier this year, the Kingaroy RSPCA announced it would shut up shop on June 30, 2025, after the organisation decided not to renew its lease with the South Burnett Regional Council, which owns the animal management facility.

“After two decades serving the animals of Kingaroy through the local council pound facilities, RSPCA Queensland has made the difficult decision to relinquish its lease of the council facilities on June 30, 2025,” the announcement read.

“Your generosity and compassion have helped us rehome 6924 animals and reunite 2507 lost animals with their owners.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman did not elaborate on why the organisation chose not to renew the lease, and said the decision was made in line with the charity’s commitment to using donated funds responsibly and strategically.

“As the animal welfare landscape continues to shift across Queensland, we remain committed to adapting our strategies to ensure we respond effectively to emerging challenges and opportunities,” she said.

The facility will be renamed the South Burnett Animal Management Centre, and will be run by the South Burnett Regional Council. Photo: RSPCA Kingaroy / Google Maps

The facility will stay open and will be run by the council.

It will be renamed the South Burnett Animal Management Centre, and the council will manage the animal housing facilities, process impounded animals, including dangerous dogs, and rehome and adopt unclaimed animals.

At the May council meeting, Mayor Kathy Duff thanked the RSPCA for its contributions to the community and said she believed the new council run facility was a good alternative.

“This is a big change for our South Burnett Regional Council and it’s unfortunate that the RSPCA have decided to withdraw from their operations in Kingaroy,” she said.

“But I think this is a good alternative.”

Originally published as Council takes over animal shelter as Kingaroy RSPCA closes