Two orphaned koalas, Ajooni and Maz, took their first steps back into the wild on Friday in Appin, in a heartwarming moment that highlights the incredible efforts of WIRES volunteers and the power of community support.
Ajooni, rescued last September at just 600 grams, and Maz, found in December in Macarthur weighing 2kg, were hand-raised and rehabilitated together by WIRES. Their successful release marks a triumph in wildlife care and compassion.
The day also saw the official handover of a brand-new WIRES wildlife ambulance, funded with $68,105 from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships (CBP) Program) — a game-changer for emergency wildlife response across the Macarthur region.
“This is what CBP funding is about. Making a noticeable, positive difference in our community,” said Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren, who attended the event alongside WIRES CEO Leanne Taylor, WIRES ERT members, and volunteers.
“Our WIRES volunteers give up so much of their own time and energy to look after our local wildlife and I am happy to be supporting them.”
The new ambulance will be permanently based in the local area, ensuring faster help for injured and distressed native animals.
As Ajooni and Maz return to their natural habitat, their story becomes a symbol of hope, and of what’s possible when community, compassion, and care come together.
