Mary has had a long history with Healesville Sanctuary and, while she has not been injured in the fires, her story tells of the compassion that is typical of wildlife carers in our community.

Mary was found wandering the streets of Marysville nearly two years ago, young and alone. No one knows what happened to her mother, but a local wildlife carer knew one thing - Mary was too young to survive without her mother. So she hand reared Mary until she was released back into the wild nearly a year ago.

Just before Christmas, a wildlife carer received a call to a wombat rescue on Maroondah Highway, close to Marysville. When she saw the stricken wombat, she instantly recognised her as the gentle Mary she had cared for as a youngster. Mary was taken to Healesville Sanctuary where she was treated for a fractured nose and eye socket.

While Mary has been recovering well from her injuries, her carer has lost her home and wildlife shelter in Buxton. Her carer is one of many wildlife carers who, despite losing so much, continues to care for the fire-affected animals in her community.

Mary is much loved by the staff at the Sanctuary - the veterinary nurses have been known to visit her just so she can roll over for a tummy scratch.

Due to habitat loss and the increased number of cars in the area where Mary came from it is too dangerous to return her to her former home. We are looking for a wonderful zoo where she can live safely and happily and bring joy to many.

Please donate to the Australian Wildlife Health Centre Bushfire Appeal