Shelter Spotlight December 2025
West Gippsland Wildlife Shelter
Name of Operator: TJ Garnett
Years of operation: 3 years
Species you care for: Reptiles and amphibians
Contact: Your local vet or any wildlife organisation such as Warriors 4 Wildlife and Wildlife Victoria. In Gippsland we work together to get the fastest response as carers often work full time as well and may not always be available!
Suburb/area covered: West Gippsland
How does West Gippsland Wildlife Shelter support wildlife and their habitat?
West Gippsland Wildlife Shelter is a small, two-person operation in the heart of West Gippsland. We specialise in caring for reptiles—often the most overlooked animals in need. When not busy with turtles and lizards, we also provide expert care for birds and offer short-term support for mammals. Our focus is on compassionate, knowledgeable rehabilitation and release of native reptiles.
What advice would you give the public?
We’d like the public to remember that every creature, no matter how scaly or unusual, deserves compassion. Just because an animal isn’t cute and fluffy doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of care. Treat all wildlife with respect—observe from a distance, seek help from trained carers when needed, and value the vital role every species plays in our environment
Learn more about Wildlife Shelters in Victoria and see our previous spotlights.
Support West Gippsland Wildlife Shelter and the wildlife they care for by donating a Wombaroo Gift Voucher.
For many wildlife rehabilitators, having access to life-saving milk formula and supplements is often a necessity they struggle to afford. These dedicated individuals devote their lives to assisting wildlife, typically funding their efforts themselves and covering costs for baby formula, medicine, and supplies from their own pockets. Unfortunately, they receive little to no government support for their crucial work.Gift vouchers make a significant difference for carers, whether it's purchasing a $20 Wombaroo voucher for a tiny joey or $1,000 voucher to support a mob of injured Kangaroo’s, every contribution plays a vital role in the recovery and survival of these precious creatures. By providing these vouchers, you empower rehabilitators to continue their invaluable work, offering second chances to animals in need.
Use the email address at checkout: westgippslandwildlifeshelter@gmail.comThank you for your generosity. Let's continue to make a positive impact, one life at a time. 
*Each voucher is email directly to the recipient to be used on anything in the store. Vouchers do not expire.