The Western Cape Feral Animal Control event raised $8000 for the RFDS thanks to supporters, including highest bidder Aaron Hussey. Photo: Supplied.
After eradicating more than 8000 kilograms of invasive species from the environment, the Western Cape Feral Animal Control (WCFAC) and a Weipa community member have topped it off by donating $8000 to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
As part of its community service initiative, the annual feral animal hunting event auctions off its leftover prizes and matches the highest bid to support a locally relevant organisation.
This year, Cape York Maintenance Solutions director Aaron Hussey came in with the highest bid of $4000, which was then doubled and donated to the RFDS Near and Far Volunteer Auxiliary.
Ms Hussey, also a sponsor and competitor at the event, said he was happy to dig deep for a good cause.
“We’ve used the service ourselves, living up here for 15 years, so it definitely played a part,” he said.
“I’ve been flown out for a broken bone and my little fella Maxie, he’s five now, got his arm burned with boiling water when he was about 12 months old. We used it [the RFDS] then too.”
WCFAC treasurer Mia Waite thanked the community for getting behind the feral control event.
“That’s just what people are like up here – I know the community all band together, but it’s honestly overwhelming that people are this good. We appreciate it so much,” she said.
“It makes it easier for us to continue because we do have battles with people looking at pig hunters as a negative thing. It’s hard to end any animal’s life, but when you look at the destruction they’re causing, you’ve got to see it in a different way.
“It’s really disheartening and sometimes you ask if it’s worth it. But when the community comes together, you see it is.”
