What is your background? 

My working life was as a Financial Analyst for a few banks and finance companies. I fell into the job as it came quite easily but it was never rewarding. It did, however, give me the opportunity to travel interstate and overseas which I enjoyed greatly. At the age of 34, I became disabled due to a spinal injury and haven’t worked since. I moved to NSW in 2008 after a holiday here from my home in Western Australia.

What is your FOK story? When did you join and why?

I saw my first koala in the wild, in a tree, outside my house and was overwhelmed. Realising that I knew nothing about koalas, I called my local rescue group (FOK) in late 2011 and started volunteering right away.

What roles have you been in during your time at FOK? 

I started working an afternoon shift with the koalas but quickly took on the role of Treasurer on the Management Committee. I have worked as a rescuer, transporter, shift supervisor, joey carer, Care Coordinator, Vice President and President. I am currently Joey Coordinator and Training Coordinator.

What has been your biggest achievement/special memory during your time volunteering?

There have been many special moments it’s hard to choose just one. 

I guess raising my first joey “Dot” who successfully spent 6 years in the wild and had at least one joey while out there. Seeing a joey succeed after being in care is always really rewarding as they have been given a second chance at life.

How has volunteering impacted you?

It has highlighted the world of volunteering and the incredible number of people who generously give their time every week across the country for so many worthy causes.