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Peninsula Pimpernel: A Home Away From Home

Story: Richard Lancaster
Published On : Jun 23, 2020
PENINSULA PIMPERNEL: A Home Away From Home
Unlike 2020, during which the volunteers and the animals of the Peninsula Animal Aid have suffered the harsh results of the dreaded COVID- 19 virus, 2021 promises to be a brighter year. For it will be 50 years since the concept of an animal refuge on the Peninsula was first born. Initially, a small group of dedicated animal lovers, concerned about the ever-increasing numbers of stray, sick and injured dogs and cats roaming Peninsula streets, took these animals into their homes and fostered them.

Redcliffe at that time had become a favourite dumping ground for callous Brisbane dog and cat owners, who drove over the Hornibrook Bridge and abandoned their unwanted pets in Redcliffe streets, knowing that the animals would be disoriented and be unable to find their way home.

Soon, the number of abandoned animals became so great that the Peninsula animal lovers were unable to cope. In 1974, another animal lover saved the day by donating a house, which the newly formed group relocated onto Council leased land in Huntington Street, Clontarf. But 20 years on, the four-footed occupants of the donated wooden house had outgrown their tenancy, so new accommodation became a necessity.

In 1997, the Redcliffe City Council recognised the need for larger premises and offered the group new accommodation at 313 Duffield Road, Clontarf. Now, another 23 years on, the volunteers are again fostering animals, due to lack of space at the refuge.

The ever increasing costs of food and veterinary bills keep the volunteers searching for new ways of fundraising. The popular weekly hydro bath service, the annual calendar and donated food, blankets, towels and money keep this wonderful voluntary gift to Redcliffe providing a 'home away from home' to many a sad, lost or abandoned pets.