Meet Jonti
Where do I even begin with Jonti? She makes my heart sing, and the love I have for her runs so deep. Jonti is more than just a special kangaroo—she’s a reflection of resilience, care, and the extraordinary bond within the mob.
Jonti was the first joey to my precious Rosie (RIP, beautiful girl). As a Mumma’s shadow, she stayed close to Rosie, always by her side. Rosie herself had a broken tail and a weak heart, which made being a Mumma incredibly tough. But Jonti, even as a little joey, understood this. She was wise beyond her years, happily helping her Mumma into the pen to rest whenever it was needed. Their bond was beautiful to witness.
When Rosie had Rossie in her pouch, Jonti stayed close, never venturing far from her Mumma and her little brother. Tragically, the day before Rosie passed, she tossed Rossie from her pouch. At just 1.3kg, poor Rossie tried to climb into Jonti’s pouch, clearly needing comfort and safety. The next day, I found Rosie deceased with Rossie still in her pouch and Jonti standing beside her. Jonti looked so heartbreakingly lost.
I had to remove Rossie, and it shattered me—Jonti had just lost her Mumma, and now her little brother was gone too. At that moment, she seemed so small, not ready to be on her own but too big to come back into care. It was a dilemma. Ultimately, I decided to let her remain with the mob, as it would alleviate her stress and reduce the risk of myopathy. To my amazement, the mob took her in and cared for her, giving her the support she needed during that difficult time.
Despite her young age, Jonti grew into an exceptional mother herself. When she had her first bub, Jaxz, I wasn’t sure how things would turn out, but Rosie had taught her well. Jaxz grew up big and strong, even though he was ejected from Mums pouch much too early, and not long after, Jaxon arrived (you can read his story here - Meet Jaxon). And now, Jonti is raising Jakari, who is so deeply attached to his incredible Mum. She visits the pen almost every night with her little one by her side, always attentive, nurturing, and fiercely protective.
What makes Jonti so incredibly special is not just her strength and resilience, but the deep connection she has to her family and her origins. Her mother, Rosie, was a true fighter—a kangaroo with a broken tail, a weak heart, and a will that refused to quit. Rosie tragically lost her life to a series of myopathy events that ultimately weakened her heart, yet her legacy of love and care lives on through Jonti. Rosie held an irreplaceable place in my heart, and seeing Jonti embody her mother’s lessons fills me with immense pride and gratitude. Jonti was also the sister of my Mr Rossie Boots, who was such a bright light in my care. Loosing Rossie was heartbreaking, and now Jonti is all that remains of Rosie’s precious legacy. Through her, I see Rosie’s strength, her heart, and her teachings—it’s as though a piece of Rosie is still here with us, watching over the mob.
I know most kangaroo mothers are amazing, but Jonti truly stands out. Her exceptional care and attention to her bubs never cease to amaze me. Her journey hasn’t been easy, yet her strength and love have carried her through. One day, I hope she has a little girl so I can name her Rosie, in honour of Jonti’s beloved Mumma.
Jonti’s story is one of family, loss, and hope. She is a testament to the beauty of life, even in the face of tragedy, and I am so proud to share her journey with you. She is the reason why I keep doing what I am doing.
Stay tuned for more stories from the mob—each one is so unique and full of heart.
Photo taken 21 March 2025.