Seven Years of Passion at Mandurah Wildlife: A seasoned volunteer’s remarkable journey and her life-changing idea for ducklings.
- Chloe Willows
- May 1
- 3 min read
Updated: May 2
If you’ve ever walked through the doors of Mandurah Wildlife, chances are you’ve seen Jane—quietly moving from one task to the next, effortlessly caring for injured wildlife and offering sage advice to volunteers. For over seven years, Jane Lord has been an invaluable part of the Mandurah Wildlife family, where her knowledge of local wildlife and dedication to their care has made a lasting impact.
Until recently, Jane was a tireless and experienced mentor, quietly guiding others and shaping how volunteers approach wildlife care. But this year, she officially stepped into the lead supervisor role—bringing with her a wealth of experience and a natural ability to lead. Since taking on this new position, Jane has truly transformed the way the centre operates, shifting it toward a more consultative, collaborative, and “learn-together” environment. Her leadership has helped build a team culture where ideas are welcomed, knowledge is shared, and everyone works together to achieve the best outcomes for the animals.
Jane’s expertise stretches far beyond the basics. Her deep understanding of animal care was most evident when she came up with her innovative duckling care system. To ensure orphaned ducklings received the warmth and comfort they would have from a mother duck, she designed a temporary shelter system that has now become a staple in the centre’s care practices.
But it’s not just the ducklings that benefit from Jane’s ideas. Her work extends to every animal that passes through Mandurah Wildlife—from possums and bandicoots to injured birds and orphaned joeys. Jane now manages the day-to-day care of wildlife at the centre and works closely with both the Board and the operational team to ensure smooth, effective outcomes for animals and volunteers alike.
She has introduced new initiatives such as weekly clinical meetings, where staff and volunteers come together to discuss ongoing cases and collaborate on care decisions. She’s also worked towards involving more people in the joy of animal releases—ensuring these beautiful moments are shared and celebrated across the team. Her work even includes supporting external partnerships and outreach, helping to strengthen connections across the wider wildlife care network.
The centre itself is a hub for the broader wildlife community in the Peel region, working alongside specialists in areas ranging from Peel Marsupial Care to Western Australia Seabird Rescue and Estuary Guardians. When joeys come through, the team ensures they are swiftly directed to the right specialists for the best care possible.
It’s this network of dedicated volunteers and professionals that makes Mandurah Wildlife not just a sanctuary for animals, but a central point of collaboration for wildlife conservation in the area.
What stands out most about Jane’s leadership is the way she encourages every volunteer to bring their own ideas to the table.
Her understated yet effective guidance fosters an environment where creativity thrives, and everyone—regardless of experience—can make a meaningful contribution.
The result is a team that doesn’t just follow procedures but is actively involved in improving and refining the care systems for every animal that comes through the door.
Jane’s quiet dedication and innovative thinking have shaped Mandurah Wildlife into what it is today. Under her leadership, the team’s collective effort ensures that native wildlife always has a chance to heal and thrive. Together, they’re more than just volunteers—they’re a vital part of the wildlife rescue community, making a real difference in the lives of the animals they care for.
Join Jane and Her Team in Making a Difference
Like Jane and her team, you can make an impact by volunteering at Mandurah Wildlife. Whether you’re helping with daily care, offering your skills, or contributing your own ideas for animal welfare, there’s always room for passionate people to join the team.
Interested in volunteering? Visit mandurahwildlife.com.au to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of native wildlife today.
