A local volunteer group dedicated to treating wombats suffering from the deadly disease mange is facing a tough challenge after the Victorian Government withdrew crucial funding, this comes at a time when the number of wombats suffering from mange in the Dandenong Ranges and beyond continues to rise.
Mange, caused by mites that burrow under the wombat’s skin, leads to severe itching, hair loss, and painful open sores.
If left untreated, it can result in secondary infections like flystrike, which is often fatal – for wombats, the disease is a real threat and without timely intervention, it can kill them.
Until recently, Mange Management Inc, a volunteer-run organisation, was able to provide treatment with the help of state government funding, but with recent cutbacks, that support has been withdrawn.
DEECA was contacted for comment.
Kallista-based volunteer with Mange Management and a passionate advocate for Victoria’s wombats, Carol Cook, said the loss of funding has made an already difficult task even harder.
“It’s devastating,” Ms Cook said.
“We’ve had over 1600 wombats reported with mange just last year alone, and now we’re struggling to fund the treatments. Each treatment costs between $80 and $200 depending on the severity of the mange and how many doses are required. That includes medicine, antiseptic spray, and transport for volunteers, who are spread across the state.”
The group is now relying on donations to continue their life-saving work. However, as Ms Cook pointed out, this adds another layer of stress to an already small and overwhelmed organisation.
“Our volunteers do all the work for free, but the cost of the treatments is a significant burden, especially with the rising cost of living. We’re facing a real struggle to keep up with the demand,” she said.
While the funding cuts have had a major impact, residents of the Dandenong Ranges are continuing to show their support.
People in areas like Monbulk, Kallista, and Sassafras have been working with Mange Management to treat local wombats.
Many have even opened their land to allow volunteers access to treat animals in need. Some have even taken it a step further, learning how to administer treatments themselves.
One such resident, Colin Skipton from Olinda, has become deeply involved in the care of a local wombat he calls “Scratchy.”
Mr Skipton first spotted Scratchy shortly after moving to Olinda 13 years ago.
Over the years, he noticed the signs of mange – bald patches and inflamed skin.
Thanks to Mange Management, Scratchy received the treatments he needed and has improved significantly.
“I’ve had a close connection with the wildlife here in Olinda, and Scratchy became one of my favourites,” Mr Skipton said.
“At first, he looked great, but over time, the mange really took a toll. Thanks to Mange Management, Scratchy got the treatment he needed, and now he’s doing much better. Without their help, he wouldn’t have survived.”
But while locals like Mr Skipton are doing everything they can, the reality is that more funding is needed to reach all wombats in need.
As the wombat population continues to decline, the loss of treatment for mange could mean the difference between life and death for these iconic Australian animals.
“Mange will kill wombats if they’re not treated,” Ms Cook said.
“It’s as simple as that. The disease causes horrible suffering, and without help, they can’t survive. We need the community’s support now more than ever to make sure we can continue our work.”
With the support of local communities and volunteers, Mange Management has been able to treat many wombats, but the future is uncertain. The group has set up a GoFundMe page in response to the funding cuts and is urging the public to donate.
Ms Cook said the money raised will go directly toward the cost of treatments and transport.
“We’re relying on the generosity of the community to help us keep going,” she said.
“We can’t do this alone. The wombats need our help, and without the funding, we won’t be able to continue providing it.”
For now, it’s up to the public to help keep the work going. Mange Management is calling for donations and for the public to keep reporting wombats with mange.
Ways you can help:
Donate through their GoFundMe page: youtu.be/fzK78NZUgSk or visit their website to make a direct contribution.
Report wombats with mange.
Volunteer
