Far North Queensland is home to some of Australia's most unique and majestic wildlife. But when these creatures are sick, injured, or vulnerable, they rely on the dedication of local wildlife carers to nurture them back to health. Through a Queensland Country Bank Good for Good Community Grant, Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue (FNQ Wildlife Rescue) can provide these carers with more resources to support Australia’s wildlife.

A Grant that Makes a Difference 

Queensland Country Bank Good for Good Community Grants are designed to support local organisations that give back to their communities in meaningful ways. FNQ Wildlife Rescue was awarded a $3,292 grant.

FNQ Wildlife Rescue Rescuer and Carer Desley Jones said the grant enabled them to supply carers with much-needed fauna products and resources, free of charge. These resources are essential as the costs of caring for injured wildlife can quickly become overwhelming. 

"Some animals will cost a carer hundreds and hundreds of dollars in the time span that they have them for,” Ms Jones explained. 

This funding has been crucial in easing the financial burden on dedicated carers, allowing them to focus on providing the best possible care for each animal. 

Earl the Glider and Other Animals in Need 

One of the many animals FNQ Wildlife Rescue has supported is Earl, a young glider found in Karumba weighing just 15 grams. Earl is just one example of the challenges wildlife carers face in restoring animals to health. 

“Gliders are a long-term prospect because they usually come in very small, and they need to be buddied up in a little family before they’re released—and that could take up to six months sometimes,” Ms Jones shared. 

Larger animals, such as kangaroos, bring additional challenges. “If you get a roo in as a velvet—so they’re just starting to get their fur—it can cost anything between $700 and $1,000 per animal,” Ms Jones said. 

“And ideally, carers will have at least two at a time so they can bond before they are at a soft release stage.” 

These costs quickly add up, but thanks to the grant, FNQ Wildlife Rescue can distribute fauna food at zero cost and invest in training both new and experienced carers.

More Than a Financial Boost 

The Good for Good Grant provides much more than financial support—it reinforces a sense of community and purpose among wildlife carers. 

“I’ve been doing this for 25 years, and funding is incredibly important to be able to do the best we can with each specific little creature,” Ms Jones said. 

With over 100 endorsed carers at FNQ Wildlife Rescue, the grant is helping create opportunities for professional development, ensuring that both human carers and their animal charges receive the support they deserve. 

Community Supporting Community 

Queensland Country Bank Cairns Branch Manager Trish Sabatino shared her enthusiasm for FNQ Wildlife Rescue’s grant success. 

“One of the benefits of being a Member-owned bank is that we can give some of our profits back to the community in the form of grants such as this one,” Ms Sabatino said. 

“Supporting our community is at the heart of what we do, and we take great pride in being able to support FNQ Wildlife Rescue and its carers as they continue to support vulnerable wildlife.” 

By investing in local organisations, Queensland Country Bank is making a positive contribution, supporting Far North Queensland to thrive—both for its people and its wildlife. 

Want to Help Your Community? Register your interest in the next round of Grants 

The Good For Good Community Grants program is designed to empower local organisations like FNQ Wildlife Rescue to achieve their goals. Whether you have a project that supports sustainability, education, or community welfare, this grant could be the key to bringing your vision to life.

Don’t miss the chance to champion your community’s future and make a lasting impact. . Eligibility criteria and conditions apply to all grant applications.