More than 400 animals received veterinary treatment in the Northern Territory’s remote Borroloola region last month, thanks to the overwhelming support of volunteers, local organisations and community residents.
A joint initiative between Roper Gulf Regional Council and the McArthur River Mine saw veterinary staff deliver care to 364 dogs, 44 cats and 20 chickens in Borroloola and Robinson River during a visit to the region in mid-April.
Council veterinarian Dr Sam Phelan led the multi-agency project and says it was encouraging to see such a strong interest in animal health from local residents.
“It’s wonderful to be able to provide this program in Borroloola and it’s been really well received and supported by the communities and outstations,” she said.
“With the generous help of three volunteer vets and a vet nurse we were able to provide parasitic treatments and de-sexing services to all residents of these communities. These treatments really are the cornerstone of good animal management.
“We were also able to collect important animal health data and educate local staff on how to collect and manage that information. School education sessions were also conducted with class excursions to the veterinary surgery, kindling a desire for a veterinary career in at least one high school student.
“This is proving to be a very successful model for providing veterinary care in an area that would otherwise struggle to receive these services, and we look forward to coming back soon.”
The clinic visits were delivered through the Healthy Dogs, Healthy Communities program with additional support from Animal Management in Rural and Remote Communities (AMRRIC), Mabunji Aboriginal Resource Association and Mungoorbada Aboriginal Corporation.