A mobile rescue unit, the first to ever be launched, is set to become the saviour of abused animals in the New England and even across the entire state.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Equipped with everything needed to rescue animals from the worst situations, the only thing it lacks is Scooby-Doo and a theme song.
Announced by MP Adam Marshall and RSPCA CEO Steve Coleman on Tuesday in Armidale, this state-of-the-art mobile command centre will be deployed to animal abuse incidents.
READ MORE:
Loaded up with animal protection equipment, the latest communication technology, along with shower and toilet facilities, it's being lauded as an animal protection base on wheels - ready for anything.
We've seen one big operation carried by the RSPCA and NSW Police just a matter of weeks ago in our region and sadly, there are still more illegal operators out there.
- Adam Marshall
"This vehicle allows RSPCA NSW compliance and veterinary staff to be the first responders to any event involving the welfare of animals," Mr Marshall said.
The $250,000 machine is the very first of a fleet to be deployed in NSW.
The vehicle has the capability to provide immediate triage to injured animals on the ground, however is not intended as a mobile vet clinic.
Natural disasters, large scale animal seizures, community education activities or large-scale compliance operations with NSW Police - the bus can do it all.
Mr Coleman said the rollout of the RSPCA NSW Animal Welfare Response Unit will give the them abilities to provide more communities and their animals with immediate care when it's needed the most.
"Helping animals in need is the reason RSPCA NSW was founded over 147 years ago and this vehicle puts us in a stronger position to be on the ground and help manage future disasters," Mr Coleman said.
The vehicle will also play a role in RSPCA NSW's community outreach and education programs, visiting schools and community groups, attending public events and offering a high presence in the places we visit.
"Alongside this unit, RSPCA has also acquired two animal transport trailers, to carry injured animals, and two community outreach vehicles, which will provide immediate animal welfare assistance and education across the state," Mr Marshall added.
It's roll out is part of an increased push to fight rogue and illegal puppy breeders, like the recent bust in Inverell.
"We've seen one big operation carried by the RSPCA and NSW Police just a matter of weeks ago in our region and sadly, there are still more illegal operators out there," Mr Marshall said.
The Animal Welfare Response Unit was procured from the RSPCA NSW Bushfire Appeal, is part the government's $2.6 million investment in emergency response infrastructure.
