ROSE BROOKS: Saving Barossa’s Wildlife
In the heart of South Australia’s Barossa Valley, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, another kind of nurturing is taking place. It’s not grapes being tended to, but the region’s native wildlife—injured, orphaned, and in need of a second chance.
At the centre of this mission is Rose Brooks, the unstoppable force behind Barossa Wildlife Rescue (BWR). For over three decades, Rose has dedicated her life to caring for all creatures great and small, turning what started as a childhood passion into a full-scale rescue and rehabilitation operation.
Rose’s journey began with a single joey named Bunty. As a child, she had a habit of bringing home injured or orphaned animals, but Bunty was the first in a long line of marsupials that would shape her life’s work. Since then, she has cared for possums, echidnas, kangaroos, koalas, and countless birds. As Rose puts it, “If it has a heartbeat, it’s worth a go!”
Barossa Wildlife Rescue has grown into a thriving, not-for-profit organisation averaging around 800 rescues or callouts each year. Whether it’s an injured possum needing rehabilitation, a displaced joey needing bottle-feeding, or an echidna found wandering too close to a road, the team at BWR steps in. Most animals are nursed back to health and released back into the wild, while others find homes in sanctuaries where they can live safely and peacefully.
For nearly 20 years, Rose ran BWR out of her own home, supported by a small network of wildlife lovers. Now with a team of over 50 dedicated volunteers, the member-led incorporated association is a fully independent, registered charity, ensuring its work will continue for generations.
Perhaps the most exciting milestone in BWR’s history is the establishment of the Rose Brooks Wildlife Sanctuary. (See photo) This long-awaited refuge, decades in the making, officially received its first residents in September. The sanctuary provides a forever home for kangaroos who can’t return to the wild, offering them safety, space, and companionship.
Bringing the sanctuary to life was a massive community effort. A band of volunteers planted 400 native trees, erected fencing, built shelters and the first three BWR joeys—Oscar the Western Grey Kangaroo, Jack the Red Kangaroo, and Pebbles the Euro—have transitioned into their new home. Two emus have also joined them as permanent residents.
The success of BWR is a testament to passion, perseverance, and community spirit. What started with a single joey has become a lifeline for hundreds of animals each year.
Thanks to Rose and her team, Barossa’s wildlife has a fighting chance, and her legacy continues to thrive just like the creatures she’s dedicated her life to saving.
If you’d like to become a member or make a donation call Rose on 0402 646 574 or email
info@barossawildliferescue.com.au.
