A local wildlife rescue group is breathing a sigh of relief after being granted a timely $10,000 funding boost.
Mandurah Just Joey Marsupial Care were facing an uphill battle to pay for food and vet bills after having to abandon their regular fundraising efforts due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Members of the organisation would usually stake out a spot inside Bunnings on weekends, rattling the tins to ensure they have enough cash to carry out their rescue service.
The pandemic put their crucial fundraising drives on hold, however, with the group forced to look elsewhere.
"We were getting pretty desperate when it came to feeding the animals," co-founder Dot Terry said.
"We've been in the middle of our busy season where we take in a lot of wildlife."
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But, thankfully, sharing in the state government's Wildlife Rehabilitation and Emergency Response Grants is set to greatly ease the financial strain on the group.
Ms Terry said it was a feeling of "sheer relief" when the organisation was accepted in the grants scheme, with the money to cover those important food and vet bills.
"It's a weight off the shoulders, that's for sure," she said.
"When we saw it had come through I thought 'my goodness, just in the nick of time'.
"This funding is going to be a huge help for us, so we're really relieved and excited about it."
Mandurah MP David Templeman praised the group for their hard work in the community.
"I would like to congratulate Mandurah Just Joey Marsupial Care on being recognised for the great work they do in Mandurah," he said.
"We are so lucky to have such passionate members of our community who look after our vulnerable native wildlife and I look forward to seeing what the group achieves with the grant."
Fellow Peel-based organisation River Wren Rescue will also share in the funding.
Mandurah Just Joey Marsupial Rescue is currently on the lookout for more volunteers.
Anyone eager to get involved can call Dot Terry on 0409 734 125.