Randwick is now home to a landmark facility that’s set to change the future of wildlife rehabilitation in Sydney. The WIRES Native Animal Recovery Centre is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art pre-release facility designed to give injured and orphaned native animals the very best chance of returning safely to the wild.
Replacing outdated and makeshift care spaces, this new centre is the result of a powerful partnership between Randwick City Council, the NSW Government and WIRES, and represents a major leap forward in how native wildlife is cared for.
Inside the new Wildlife Recovery Centre
The centre has been carefully designed to meet the complex needs of native animals recovering from injury or illness, while also supporting the dedicated volunteers who care for them. Facilities include:
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Nine possum enclosures, designed to minimise human contact and support dehumanisation before release
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Three bird enclosures
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A large flight aviary, allowing birds to rebuild strength, practise flying and relearn critical survival skills
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Dedicated rest and work areas for volunteers
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Ample storage for food, medical supplies and specialist equipment
Thanks to its expanded capacity, the centre can now care for a wider range of species, including Ibis and larger birdsthat previously had to be referred elsewhere. The first residents have already moved in, including Rainbow Lorikeets and juvenile Ibis.
Built to the highest standards
This is truly a next-generation wildlife facility. Purpose-built to modern rehabilitation standards, it includes:
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Hot and cold running water
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Reliable power and well-lit corridors
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Improved safety and comfort for both animals and carers
Environmental responsibility was central to the design, with thoughtful planning around energy use, water access and long-term sustainability. WIRES hopes the centre will not only heal animals, but also serve as a model for future wildlife facilities across NSW and beyond.
Why this matters for families and kids
For families across the Eastern Suburbs, the WIRES Native Animal Recovery Centre is more than just a building — it’s a powerful educational opportunity. It highlights the importance of protecting native wildlife, teaches children about compassion, conservation and responsibility, and showcases the incredible work of community volunteers.
It also means faster, better care for injured animals found in local backyards, parks and beaches — something many families unfortunately encounter. Knowing there is a world-class facility nearby brings reassurance and pride to the community.
A future full of possibility
With more space, better resources and a higher standard of care, WIRES is now better equipped than ever to respond to animals in crisis — and to support the extraordinary volunteers who make this work possible.
WIRES also acknowledges the generous support of WIRES East Branch volunteers and local businesses including Melocco & Moore, TE Build, Active Tree Services, Bunnings East Gardens, Hoselink, Appliances Online and many others who helped bring this vision to life.
The WIRES Native Animal Recovery Centre marks the beginning of a brighter future for wildlife care in Randwick — and an inspiring example for families raising the next generation of wildlife protectors.
