Cackle for koalas and other wildlife at fundraising event

JIMEOIN, Lehmo and Mandy Nolan are coming together for a charity event to raise money for Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital next month.

Former Neighbours and Underbelly actress Madeleine West will MC the event – dubbed WILD AID 24 – at the Beach Hotel in Byron Bay on Thursday, November 21.

The inaugural WILD AID 2023, which was headlined by The Cruel Sea, raised almost $100,000 for the hospital.

Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital founder and CEO Dr Stephen Van Mil said he was grateful that the performers were donating their time and talents to help raise money for the hospital’s life-saving care and treatment of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.

The hospital operates out of a custom-built semi-trailer in the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary car park at Knockrow.

Dr Van Mil said that like many other not-for-profit organisations, the hospital was struggling in the face of the cost-of-living crisis.

“It’s tough, it’s really tough,” he said. “We have had no support from the government and the fundraising sector in general is tough.

“People are battening down with the cost-of-living crisis.

“Last year’s event came about after our government funding was revoked and Tex Perkins said he would put on a gig to raise some money.

“This year Jimeoin contacted us and said he was happy to put his hand up and do a comedy gig.

“He’s spent a bit of time up here and he likes what we do and wanted to help.”

Dr Van Mil said the veterinary staff worked extremely hard and the need for funding was ongoing.

“It’s really sobering work and that’s why we thought a comedy WILD AID was a chance for everyone to relax and have a laugh,” he said.

Organisers are also looking for companies who can offer unique items and experiences to auction off on the night.

Tickets for the over-18s event are available via Moshtix.