Meet Jade
Jade’s journey is etched in the flames of adversity, a testament to the indomitable spirit of our native wildlife. 🌟
🔥 Trial by Fire: A controlled burn swept around our sanctuary, frightening Jade and her companions—Jake and Jaffa. The wind carried the flames, and chaos reigned: motorbikes, trucks, and human clamor. Jade and Jake fled, their hearts racing.
🦴 Broken Bones: Three days later, I found Jade—curled up against a tree about 1km from home, her leg fractured. Dr. Shey worked her magic, pinning the bone. It took a team during those weeks after surgery. Danielle came over every day to administer her antibiotic injections, help me with cleaning her up (she wasn't used to being toileting any more, so wet bags and pouches. I persisted and towards the end it got better) and brought fresh browse for the rest of the mob a couple of times a week. Peggy drove the 3 hour round trip every week for vet check up and x-rays. A surprise visit from her first Mummy and Daddy, Wendy and Ken lifted every one's spirits. Six weeks of rehab, and Jade was free once more. But the bond with Jaffa and Jake lay shattered, like burnt leaves in the aftermath.
👶 Maternal Instincts: Jade’s first girl joey Darwin arrived, but motherhood bewildered her. The little one vanished, leaving an ache in her heart. Then came Jasper—a tiny bundle of hope. Jade doted on him, watched over him. But fate played a cruel hand: during a mating chase, Jasper slipped from her pouch, lost forever.
🌾 Lonely Vigil: Now Jade roams our sanctuary—a solitary figure. She’s part of the mob yet never truly belongs. Her eyes hold memories of fire, loss, and love. And as another joey stirs within her pouch, I’ll be her silent guardian, guarding her fragile hope. She is still very attached to me and comes to me for cuddles and scratches.
Its 2025 and Jade has successfully raised a little boy named Jirra. The name "Jirra" has its origins in the Indigenous Australian languages and generally means "kangaroo." The name is linked to confidence and independence.
Jirra