PREVIEW

A wildlife sanctuary in Australia has been forced to evacuate animals following severe flooding caused by days of torrential rain.

Located in the Barrington Tops National Park, Aussie Ark’s sanctuary has been devastated by more than 400mm of rainfall in just a few days, with an additional 100mm expected in the next 24 hours. The extreme weather has wreaked havoc on the site’s infrastructure - flooding enclosures, washing out roads, and damaging crucial fencing that protects endangered species.

Despite being cut off by rising waters, Aussie Ark’s team remains on the ground, working tirelessly to safeguard the animals. Every animal has been accounted for and is currently in good health, with staff implementing emergency measures to keep them safe, dry, and secure.

As conditions continue to deteriorate, efforts have intensified. Wildlife is being carefully relocated to the sanctuary’s new veterinary block, offering a safe, dry refuge while repairs are made and weather remains unpredictable. With roads blocked and supply chains disrupted, teams are also coordinating emergency fruit and vegetable deliveries to maintain proper nutrition for the animals.

Reinforcements are en route. An emergency team from the Australian Reptile Park, headed by Aussie Ark Managing Director Tim Faulkner, is traveling to the sanctuary to support ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.

“Our teams are working day in and day out, mending fences and repairing damage, only for the relentless rain to knock everything over again,” said Faulkner. “It’s a constant battle, but we are determined to keep going and protect every single animal in our care.”

While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, early indications suggest that recovery will be a major undertaking. To support the rebuilding efforts, a flood appeal has been launched, with vital contributions already received from partners such as Re\:wild and WildArk.