Native Animal
Pre-release Facility
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A New Safeguard for Coffs Harbour Wildlife
The WIRES native animal pre-release facility in Coffs Harbour began operating in early December 2025 and is currently supporting rescued Ringtail and Brushtail possums and several native bird species. Located behind the Coffs Regional Community Gardens, the site offers a quiet, natural space suitable for the important ‘pre-release’ stage of rehabilitation and care.
What the Facility Does
The site is a pre-release facility, used in the last phase of rehabilitation before native animals are released back into their natural environment. It currently has one large aviary and six dedicated possum enclosures.
Within these enclosures, rehabilitating animals can rebuild strength, movement, and natural foraging behaviours in a low-stress setting. Flight aviaries are particularly important for rehabilitating birds, as they support the bird to build up their wing strength and dexterity before release.
The facility will also help reduce pressure on home-based carers, who can share the rehabilitation and care of wildlife preparing for release in a secure, well-managed facility.
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Designed to Fit its Surroundings
Care was taken to keep the impact on the environment as small as possible. Enclosures and pathways were built to sit gently within the landscape and blend into the surrounding area.
The site has hot and cold water, and volunteers can access shaded seating and amenities through the support of the Coffs Regional Community Gardens, whose help has been important in setting up the facility.
A Shared Effort
The facility operates on land leased from Coffs Harbour City Council, which made it possible for the project to proceed. It has come together through the ongoing efforts of WIRES volunteers, support from WIRES donors and the local community, and the generosity of the Coffs Regional Community Gardens in sharing their space and facilities.
Local Indigenous community members have also been consulted to help with the formal naming of the site, which is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
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Volunteers Make it Possible
Volunteers look after the day-to-day running of the site, including preparing food and water, checking enclosures, collecting foliage, and general upkeep. This volunteering is no-contact, allowing native animals to remain undisturbed as they prepare for release.
Looking Ahead
This new pre-release facility is a practical step towards providing injured and orphaned wildlife with the very best care and support they need, for the strongest chance of survival in the wild. As our native species face ever-increasing threats from habitat loss and extreme weather, this is a vital and urgently needed safeguard.
Thank you to all who are making it possible.