Thieves steal $20,000 of rescue equipment from Busselton wildlife charity FAWNA

Thieves have stolen more than $20,000 worth of equipment from a wildlife rescue charity, striking while volunteers were caring for orphaned baby possums.

Busselton’s FAWNA Inc, a South West not-for-profit organisation that rescues and rehabilitates native wildlife, was targeted by the thieves during the night of September 12.

First-aid kits, specialised rescue backpacks and “black walk” kits — equipment volunteers use to find injured animals in areas scorched by bushfire — were among the items stolen from the charity.

FAWNA president Suzi Strapp said that the burglary occurred in the early hours while she and another volunteer were home feeding baby brushtail possums through the night.

“It was heartbreaking, a real kick in the guts to all our volunteers and we feel like we’ve gone 10 steps back,” Ms Strapp said.

“It’s especially bad timing, entering the spring and summer — peak breeding season for possums and many of the animals.”

Ms Strapp said while the theft was a devastating blow, the efforts of police who were currently investigating, and the generosity and care of the community had been heartening.

“We’ve had donations coming in from locals and Bunnings have offered to donate some new equipment,” she said.

“Even just the community really caring, commenting on social media and sending their thoughts, has really meant a lot — it’s lifted our spirits during a week when we’ve needed it”.

FAWNA, which has a base in Busselton but operates from Dawesville to Manjimup, relies solely on the work of volunteers, competitive grants and community funding.