Meet Nick: Seven years of giving back to wildlife through WILVOS

Wildlife news from Jennifer Berry, Wildlife Volunteers Assoc. Inc (WILVOS) 07 54416200 
www.wilvos.org.au

Nick’s journey with Wildlife Volunteers Association started well before he officially became a volunteer. For years he worked in wildlife management, helping with possums and snakes in roof spaces while educating the community at the same time. Through this work he developed a deeper understanding of native animals and became increasingly aware of how much pressure wildlife faces when living so closely alongside people.

A lifelong animal lover and longtime volunteer, Nick had already given his time as a Scout leader, SES volunteer, and across a 38 year Army career. After noticing the WILVOS signage around the Sunshine Coast, he decided it was time to get involved. Seven years later, he is still going strong.

What struck Nick from the beginning was the professionalism of the organisation. While compassion for animals was evident across the group, it was the strong systems, training, and support that impressed him most. For Nick, being part of a wellrun organisation made all the difference.

Nick now volunteers across several areas including hotline response, wildlife caring, and supporting community information stalls. The hotline is a favourite role, giving him the opportunity to assist members of the public while also offering gentle education where appropriate.

Over the years, Nick has cared for a wide range of wildlife. A small possum currently in his care has become a favourite, happily clinging to his arm while feeds are prepared. Birds have also played a big role in his journey, from cheeky kookaburras to currawongs learning to fend for themselves. Releasing animals back into the wild remains the most rewarding moment. For Nick, that successful release is the true measure of a job well done.

His advice to anyone considering volunteering is simple. Be honest about what you can commit to, ask questions, and remember that at the heart of everything WILVOS does, it is always about the animals.

If you would like to volunteer, visit wilvos.org.au/join-us/. If you have a question or need help with native wildlife, call the WILVOS 24/7 hotline on 07 5441 6200.