Gala Events

OAT have been getting into the Christmas spirit over the past month or so. We attended Animals Asia’s annual gala dinner at Plaisterers Hall in the City and Born Free’s “Beyond the Bars”  event at The Royal Horticultural Halls in Victoria. We were joined by lots of our close friends and supporters and everyone gave generously to the causes for which we are really grateful.  Highlight for me was meeting one of Born Free’s most treasured Patron’s and committed animal warrior – the gorgeous Joanna Lumley 😍 and I know Sue & Polly were thrilled to see their heroine Jill Robinson, Founder of Animals Asia.

Trips on the horizon!

PAMS Foundation – Tanzania

In December The Olsen’s are off to Tanzania where they will take time during their holiday to visit one of the projects we are supporting through PAMS. We met with the founders of PAMS early last year, Wayne Lotter and Krissie Clark and learnt about the amazing conservation work they do in Tanzania. We agreed to support an elephant and rhino protection project they were seeking funding for. Tragically earlier this year Wayne was murdered and the whole conservation world is still mourning and in shock at this loss. This was a sure sign that he was being hugely successful in his anti-trafficking work. However, his death will not be in vain, his legacy and work will continue through his very able and committed partner Krissie and the rest of the PAMS  organisation.  No doubt Sue will share some pictures and updates on the elephant and rhino project in due course.

Chimpanzee Conservation Centre (CCC) – Guinea

In January I will be heading back to Guinea to see what’s been happening at the Chimp sanctuary since I was last there in April 2017. As you may remember, after my last visit OAT decided to extend a significant grant to CCC to enable them to improve and extend their facility.  We are also delighted  to say they we were able to encourage other like minded individuals and organisations to support their work as well. A big thank you to David Shepherd Wildlife Trust and Good Heart Sanctuaries for coming on board and to Tusk Trust for continuing their valuable support.

Some of the improvements already being enjoyed are:

– New large enclosure for Coco – my favourite chimp 😉 – almost complete (OAT)
– Improved night enclosure for babies (GHS)
– Extended awareness programme for local communities (DSWT)
– New site being researched for the next release troop (TUSK)
– New technology including vital radios for base to field communication (OAT)

I am also very excited to tell you that Luke Gamble of World Veterinary Service (WVS) will be coming along to Guinea with me in January.   Luke has agreed to help with a much needed upgrade of CCC’s veterinary clinic at the sanctuary will provide on going support, supplies and advice. Being a very experienced vet himself Im sure CCC will benefit hugely. Thank you Luke 👍

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