X-ray machine to support local wildlife

CHRISTOPHER O’LEARY

A SIGNIFICANT tool in helping treat injured wild animals is now at Ballarat Wildlife Hospital after generous support from community groups.

In February, the hospital received a $46,000 DR portable x-ray machine to help assess wildlife for treatment.

Ballarat Wildlife Hospital director Nikki Shanahan said the device would have a notable effect on improving the chances of survival for those wild animals treated.

“We need to be able to have the equipment for diagnostics as soon as possible for the best possible outcome for that particular wildlife,” she said.

“It’s all about timing for the survival of any wildlife that has suffered trauma.”

The veterinary practice manager and surgical nurse said an x-ray machine was a handy tool in critical situations.

“It’s very difficult and stressful to transport injured wildlife to clinics for x-ray procedures,” she said.

Ms Shanahan said the “high ticket item” was made possible with support from community donations, the Anthony Costa Foundation, Community Bank Buninyong, Mount Helen/Buninyong Lions Club, the St John’s and Creswick Havilah lodges along with the Freemasons Foundation.

Atlas Diagnostics also donated safety equipment necessary to operate the machine.

A group of vets, nurses and scientists started the small, not-for-profit organisation in November 2022 after they recognised a need for wildlife veterinary care.

Ms Shanahan said not only did wildlife need support, but also local shelters, carers and rescuers.

“We’re just trying to do the best we can for the wildlife amongst so many disasters we’ve had in Victoria with fires,” she said.

“It’s been quite devastating; fires, drought, there’s no feed in the bush, there’s no water, it’s pushing wildlife out into inhabited areas.”

Community Bank Buninyong’s Kelly Bevan said the machine was a game changer for the region’s environment.

“We’re really proud to play a part in making their lifesaving work a little bit easier,” she said.

More information about the hospital is at ballaratwildlifehospital.org.au