Construction is set to get underway today on a new world class facility at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.
The first sod will turn on the $17 million wildlife institute, which is promising to help vets tackle the root cause of wildlife illness through research and education.
It comes at a critical time, with Currumbin Wildlife Hospital now admitting around 15,000 sick, injured and orphaned native animals each year.
Head of Veterinary Sciences and Research at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Dr Michael Pyne OAM, said the sod-turning marked a major step forward for wildlife conservation in Queensland.
“This is a significant milestone not just for Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, but for wildlife conservation more broadly,” Dr Pyne said.
“Every animal we save represents a step forward for its species, but the real game-changer is preventing harm before it happens.
“This world-class facility will help us tackle the root causes of wildlife illness through applied research, education and collaboration,” he said.
PHOTO: Supplied
The project has been backed by all three levels of Government, with a combined $14 million in funding secured for construction.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the new campus is on track to become a leading centre for wildlife care, combining research, education, and ecotourism.
“Today marks an exciting milestone with construction underway on a world-class research and education campus at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital,” Minister Powell said.
PHOTO: Supplied
“We’re delivering world-class facilities for our veterinarians and carers, boosting care for injured wildlife and backing the lifesaving work they do every day, while driving global advancements in treatment.
“Once open, this expansion will offer a rare window into our veterinarians’ work, inspire the next generation, and deliver an unforgettable ecotourism experience, strengthening Queensland’s position as a global leader in the sector”.
Construction is due to be complete by June 2027, with the facility expected to open later that year.
