:: FREEME

Founded in 1997, FreeMe is a Rehabilitation Centre based in the North of Johannesburg for indigenous wildlife. Birds and animals are brought to the centre by members of the public, Nature Conservation, SPCA’s and local vets.

FreeMe is headed up by CEO Margi Brocklehurst and an executive committee of five. It is staffed and operated by a full time manager, two support staff and a dedicated group of trained volunteers (presently 30). The centre is open 7 days a week.

It caters for a large variety of birds e.g. garden birds, raptors and water birds. Many small mammals such as hedgehogs, squirrels, mongooses, suricates, jackals and foxes are also cared for as well as smaller cat species. Antelope cases include duiker, springbuck, steenbuck and eland. Tortoises, leguaans, chameleons and other species of reptiles are also cared for.

Educational talks and presentations are made to schools in Gauteng to instil conservation values in scholars for the future conservation of nature. Bird and other animal exhibits are held for the benefit of the community, viz. bird clubs, retirement homes and farmers as well as other groups.

In February 2004, FreeMe hosted the only internationally recognised basic training course for wildlife rehabilitators in Johannesburg, the IWRC course. In 2005 another basic course is planned as well as a number of advanced courses.

• FreeMe is heavily supported by all the local veterinary practices (approximately 25) who offer most of their services pro bono. In 2003 the Veterinary Council in Gauteng rewarded FreeMe with a cash donation for the good work it does for urban wildlife.
  
• FreeMe won the prestigious IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) award for the best independent wildlife rehabilitation centre in 2003.
  
• FreeMe strives to promote a responsible attitude towards wildlife and the environment through education programmes, newsletters, publicity and advice.

FreeMe website: www.freeme.org.za

:: Back to Project Highlights