Biolink was engaged by the Future of Yarram Working Group to undertake a needs analysis and strategic feasibility study for a proposed wildlife treatment and conservation centre in Yarram, Victoria. The project examined whether a regional facility could address gaps in wildlife treatment while also supporting conservation, research and education.
We first assessed the region’s biodiversity values and likely demand for wildlife treatment. This included analysis of wildlife records, koala vehicle-strike information and regional rescue data. Biolink also undertook extensive stakeholder consultation with wildlife rehabilitators, shelters and veterinary clinics. This provided direct information on wildlife caseloads, treatment needs, seasonal pressures, travel distances and gaps in existing services.
The study found a clear need for improved regional wildlife treatment capacity. Importantly, the evidence supported a general wildlife facility rather than a koala-only hospital. Biolink assessed several service models and identified a regional hub-and-spoke model with seasonal surge capacity as the preferred approach. The assessment also considered operating costs, supporting infrastructure, governance, partnerships and project risks.
The project has a strong conservation focus. The Strzelecki region supports one of Australia’s most genetically significant relic koala populations. Biolink therefore identified opportunities for the centre to support koala genetic research and population management, wildlife disease research, rehabilitation science, professional training and community education.