do something

Hello everyone

As some of you know I have family in the Kilmore Broadford area in Victoria where the fires went through last Saturday and at the moment I am feeling really far away from home. While everyone I know is ok I still feel that it is important to do something to contribute. I have been looking for something to do from here that is useful and practical. Yesterday afternoon on the radio I heard an idea of something I can do to help and I thought it was something I could get a few other people to do as well.

The RSPCA and other animal rescue groups, like WIRES, will run out of towels and pouches very quickly. I know a lot of you are crafty and like to sew and knit and I was thinking that we could gather towels and fabric and make pouches to send down to aid in the care of the injured animals.

For people who can’t sew or don’t have time a donation of towels or cotton fabric would be a fantastic contribution.

Here are some instructions and requirements that you might find useful:

Making possum/wallaby joey pouches.

When juvenile marsupials come into care they need to be kept warm and quiet. Many people who would like to help our wildlife but are unable to commit to rescue or care volunteering, can help by making pouches and linings.

Pouches:

Wool: 8 ply pure wool (unfortunately we are unable to use pouches made from synthetic materials)
Knitting: Pouches should be knitted in plain stitch both sides, or 2 pearl 2 knit.
Needles: Size 8 needles
Dimensions: 25 cm wide by 30 cm long
Closed on three sides and open at the top.
Or think something along the lines of an oven mitt...

Lining:

Material: pure cotton washable material only, flannelet or old towels are perfect. PJ pant legs are also good!
Dimensions: 25 cm wide by 30 cm long. Think about A4 size...
The lining should not be attached to the pouch as it will need to be changed regularly.
We generally require more linings than pouches to allow washing and regular changes.
The lining should be closed on three sides and open at the top.

And if you are feeling really crafty here is a link to an amazing kangaroo bag – scroll down to page 10.

I will get on to some organisations and see where the pouches can be posted to. In the meantime GET SEWING!!

Please pass this on to people that you know can help. If you can make 2 or 10 it doesn’t matter – all contributions will be gratefully received. Please contact me to either pick them or you can drop them off at my place in Cook ACT. Please email me for details. And if you are in Victoria contact your local animal shelter or the RSPCA for details of what they need and how you can help.

kkfox78@yahoo.com.au

WIRES

RSPCA