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Grampian bushfires devastation

Saturday, February 1, 2025

In December 2024, the Grampians region in Victoria was struck by devastating fires. Over the course of several weeks, the fire burned through more than 76,000 hectares of land, destroying vast swathes of native bushland and posing a serious threat to both human settlements and wildlife. The fire was fuelled by extreme temperatures and dry conditions, making it one of the worst wildfires in the region in many years. 

For Wildwood Wildlife Shelter, situated at the entrance of the Grampians National Park, the situation became increasingly urgent.  

WIRES quickly mobilised via our Disaster Relief Program, working closely with Animals Australia and Warriors4Wildlife to coordinate and deliver emergency supplies to the shelter on Christmas Eve.  

This emergency support is now feeding rescued native animals like Jodie, an Eastern grey Kangaroo joey who survived the fires and is currently in care at Wildwood Wildlife Shelter.

In the immediate aftermath of a bushfire, habitats are left scorched, food sources are scarce, and many animals are displaced or injured. Wildlife must contend with the destruction of their homes and the limited availability of shelter and resources. This often drives them into urban areas and increases the risk of vehicle strikes.  

It can take years, sometimes decades, for ecosystems to fully recover and support the biodiversity that once thrived. In the meantime, dedicated carers and wildlife rescuers rehabilitate injured animals and help reintroduce them to their natural environments when safe.  

As the Grampians region begins its slow recovery, the steadfast work of wildlife volunteers, supported by generous businesses like yours, reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming loss, nature has the capacity to rebuild.

A very big thank you to you, and to our long-term partner Woolworths for their ongoing support of the WIRES Disaster Relief Program.

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