Karlup Animal Sanctuary Incorporated

Karlup Animal Sanctuary Incorporated, located in Forest Hill, Western Australia, is a dedicated wildlife sanctuary and bush regeneration site that also serves as a refuge for rescued farm animals, including retired racehorses. The sanctuary is situated on a 70.8-hectare property, surrounded by extensive nature reserves, and was previously used as a farm and blue gum plantation before being transformed into a haven for native flora and fauna. The owners, Claire Pragnell and Michael Jackson, have committed to restoring the land by removing non-native trees, resowing pasture, and carefully revegetating with native species to support local biodiversity.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Karlup Animal Sanctuary Incorporated is to create a humane world for animals by providing a safe, natural environment where wildlife and rescued farm animals can thrive. The vision is to establish an ideal release site for native wildlife, enhance habitat connectivity, and contribute to the broader Gondwana Link initiative, which aims to reconnect fragmented landscapes across southern Australia.

Main Objectives

• Protect and restore natural water sources and remnant vegetation, including jarrah, marri, and wandoo woodlands, native grasslands, sheoak, xanthorrhoea, and acacia species.
• Build wildlife corridors and livestock exclusion zones to support threatened species and improve biodiversity.
• Provide sanctuary and care for retired racehorses and other rescued farm animals, ensuring their wellbeing.
• Engage in ongoing bush regeneration and land management practices to sustain the ecological health of the property.

Benefiting Groups

The sanctuary primarily benefits native wildlife, including threatened and locally significant species, by offering them protected habitat and increased food sources. It also provides a home for rescued farm animals, particularly those no longer suited to agricultural work, ensuring they live out their lives in a safe and caring environment. Additionally, the broader community benefits from the preservation of natural landscapes and the promotion of environmental stewardship.

Types of Services and Activities

• Wildlife habitat restoration: Fencing, revegetation, and creation of wildlife corridors to support native species.
• Animal sanctuary: Care and shelter for retired racehorses and other rescued farm animals.
• Bush regeneration: Removal of invasive species and replanting of native vegetation to restore ecological balance.
• Environmental education: Although not explicitly stated, the sanctuary’s activities inherently promote awareness about conservation and the importance of protecting native ecosystems.
• Community engagement: Potential for volunteer involvement and collaboration with local conservation initiatives.

Through these efforts, Karlup Animal Sanctuary Incorporated stands as a model of compassionate care for animals and committed environmental restoration, contributing meaningfully to the preservation of Western Australia’s unique natural heritage.