Our Year 8KLIC class had the privilege of hosting an inspiring talk on wildlife protection by our very own Ms Tanja. As a volunteer with Wildlife Rescuers here in Melbourne, Ms Tanja brought with her not just her extensive knowledge but also a heartfelt passion for protecting Australia’s native animals.
To kick off her presentation, Ms Tanja arrived with a fascinating bag of stuffed animals, representing the many species native to Australia, some of them now listed as endangered like the iconic Koala, Greater Glider and Bilby. This hands-on approach allowed students to see and touch models and fostered empathy to the plight of threatened and endangered animals. Through this interactive experience, students gained a deeper understanding of the critical situation these animals face.
The highlight of Ms Tanja’s talk was undoubtedly her unique rendition of the popular Ghostbusters song, modified to fit the theme of wildlife rescue. With enthusiasm, she sang:
- If there’s an animal in need
- In your neighbourhood
- Who you gonna call?
- Wildlife Rescuers!
This catchy tune captivated the students, ensuring the important message of calling for help in times of wildlife distress would be remembered. Ms Tanja emphasised that quick action can save lives, particularly in cases where injured animals may have joeys (babies) in their pouches.
Ms Tanja also shared practical advice on what to do if you find an injured animal. She showcased handmade pouches created by dedicated volunteers and demonstrated how to carefully handle joeys to keep them safe until professional help arrives. She provided the essential contact number for Wildlife Rescuers, 0417 506 941, urging students to save it in their phones.
We are immensely grateful to Ms Tanja for her engaging and educational presentation. Her passion and dedication have undoubtedly inspired many of us to be more vigilant and proactive in protecting our precious native wildlife. Through her efforts, we are reminded that each of us can make a difference and contribute to making the world a better place. Thank you, Ms Tanja, for enlightening us and showing us how to become guardians of nature!