The Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) Illawarra is urging community members to have their say on a proposed wombat pre-release rehabilitation compound at the Jerrara Rainforest and Wetlands.

The proposal is currently on public notice until 4:30pm, September 1, which is the deadline for community submissions.

“It’s really simple - just contact Kiama Council and say whether you support the Jerrara wombat compound. Even a short message stating you're in favour would be a huge help. Without public support, this won’t go ahead,” said WIRES volunteer and wombat carer Gayle Tarrant.

Between June 2024 and June 2025, WIRES Illawarra responded to 250 wombat rescues, with 150 treated for mange.

Currently, 25 joeys are in care, and 13 wombats raised from infancy have recently been released. 

Rehabilitation typically takes 18 to 24 months, but many of the remaining wombats were sadly dead on arrival, died shortly after capture, or were euthanised due to the severity of their condition.

“Right now, we only have two other rehabilitation compounds in the Illawarra,” said Tarrant. 

“They’re full. We’ve even had to send wombats outside the region to other wildlife groups, which puts a lot of stress on the animals. This project is critical if we want to care properly for our local wombats.”

She says the stretch of land from Kiama to Foxground is prime wombat habitat, making Jerrara the ideal location for the facility.

WIRES Illawarra has applied to take over the lease of 125 Jerrara Road. The compound is intended for rehabilitation only and will not be used as a release site.

“Wombats will be released at other suitable locations,” said Tarrant. “Each compound is 7x7 metres and includes an intensive care shed (2x3 metres) that connects two enclosures. The shed allows us to treat critically ill wombats, administer medications, and prevent fly-blown wounds.”

The facility will accommodate up to two wombats per compound - a total of four, or up to six in urgent situations. The shed provides space for an additional critical care case. The entire area will be fenced for safety and not open to the public.

“This isn’t a zoo - the goal is to return these animals to the wild,” said Tarrant.

Beyond the immediate need to support injured and orphaned wombats, Tarrant emphasised the broader responsibility to protect Australia’s native wildlife.

“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved our native animals. They’re unique - there’s nothing like them anywhere else in the world. The way they move, their habits, their personalities - they’re just awesome animals,” she said.

“We’re incredibly lucky to live in a wombat area, and I’m passionate about doing whatever I can to protect them.”

How to Support the Proposal

Deadline: 4:30pm, Sunday 1 September 2025

To have your say, simply email Kiama Council at [email protected].

WIRES suggests using the subject line: Wombat Compound at Jerrara

In the body of your message, state clearly that you support the proposal. Even a few words of support can make a difference.