Animal protection group needs help

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 7, Issue 341, 26 June 1990, Page 13

Animal protection group needs help

The Waimarino branch of the Rangitikei S.P.C.A. is in dire need of a 'shot in the arm', of new members and greater public support. The lack of interest in local animal welfare was evident from the poor attendance at last month's meeting. Only eight people - three from Ohakune - were in attendance. Newly-elected chair- . man Julie Nation called on former chairman Debbie Hill for suggestions to increase public

awareness of the S.P.C.A. Mrs Hill was chairman of the branch for two years and served as secretary for a similar period. The S.P.C.A. has had an active role in the Waimarino for many years but has suffered more recently from a drop in numbers and public apathy. It is a voluntary organisation that relies solely on donations, subscriptions and fund-raising, receiving no funding from Government bodies. Larger societies are

able to employ staff, while most branches rely totally on volunteers. Waimarino's branch has one qualified Inspector, Mrs Hill, to investigate complaints of cruelty and to enforce the Animals Protection Act that deals with of fences in the handling and management of animals. A meeting is to be held on Wednesday 27 June at the branch rooms in Queree Drive, Waiouru, start time 7.30pm (see public notices.)