Mareeba Animal Refuge

Mareeba Animal Refuge Donations gratefully accepted. 🐶🐱
BSB 633-000
Acc Number 113217335
Acc Name Friends of the Animals "Friends of the Animals Inc."

About Us

Mareeba Animal Refuge (MAR) is currently run and managed by Jennifer Walsh, who has many years experience in the care of animals. Jennifer is also a trained Homeopath and Natural Therapist and she has instigated many treatments in the care of the animals in this field as well. was originally established in Herberton around 2000 by our founder, Fiona Buchanan who had many years of work in

animal welfare before she was drawn to the Atherton Tablelands because of the great need here. Already elderly, she began a gift shop in Herberton and worked long hours in the shop as well as caring for several neglected and abandoned dogs in her own home. Later, a gallery coffee shop was established next door to the gift shop and these are both now thriving businesses staffed solely by volunteers with all proceeds either coming to us or assisting low income earners with desexing programmes. The original aim was to build a refuge in the Wongabel Forest on land purchased with the assistance of Cairns Animal Welfare, however after receiving too much opposition from local residents the land was sold and the idea abandoned. Shortly thereafter, Council put up the tender on the former TSPCA site in Mareeba. We applied and won, taking over on November 17, 2007. Sadly, Fiona passed away in August 2007 just before her dream was realised. The site had been allowed to become very run down and with the huge effort of a wonderful team of volunteers, it wasn't long before the Mareeba Animal Refuge opened its doors looking very neat and tidy. The refuge is going from strength to strength with collaberation between Mareeba Shire Council and all the dedicated supporters and very hard workers of Friends of the Animals. The Refuge could not function without the help of its volunteers who give up their time day after day, week after week to keep this place functioning as well as it does. The list is long but the main contributers are as follows. Faye Downie - dog trainer and assessor. Puts in long hours to walk, obedience train and temperament assess our dogs. The dog walkers - several helpers come very regularly especially Arthur who comes six days a week to help us walk our dogs, everyone of which is walked every day. Tony Clausen - Keeps our vast lawns and entry ways neat and tidy. He supplies his own mowing equipment and petrol. In the wet season this is a weekly task that takes many hours. All our paid staff also put in many extra hours to fund raise and help in many other ways. Jennifer and crew are extremely grateful to all these organisations who assist in sponsoring their Refuge, please contact her if you would like to become a sponsor.

🐾 Adopt Now – Our Cats & Kittens Need You! 🐾Our cattery is bursting with beautiful cats and kittens waiting for their fo...
08/02/2025

🐾 Adopt Now – Our Cats & Kittens Need You! 🐾

Our cattery is bursting with beautiful cats and kittens waiting for their forever homes! With March 1st fast approaching, now is the perfect time to adopt before our adoption fee increases take effect.

🏡 Looking for a playful kitten? We have plenty!
🐱 Want a relaxed, loving adult cat? We've got those too!
🐾 Need a single kitty or a bonded pair? We can help match you with the perfect companion!

💰 Adoption Fees (until March 1st):
🐾 Females: $220 (Increasing to $250)
🐾 Males: $190
✅ Includes desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments.
🚫 No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted.

📍 Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM
📞 Contact: 4092 3060

Don't wait! Come visit this weekend and find your new best friend before prices increase! If you can’t adopt, please share, tag, and help spread the word—our rescue kitties need homes now! 🐱❤️

Update: ADOPTED = Mum and ginger nose torty. 🐾 We Just Had to Share This Adorable Family! 🐾Meet our beautiful mumma and ...
07/02/2025

Update: ADOPTED = Mum and ginger nose torty.

🐾 We Just Had to Share This Adorable Family! 🐾

Meet our beautiful mumma and her four gorgeous babies! At about 5 years old, this sweet girl is raising three tortoiseshell daughters and one little black son- around 3.5 to 4 weeks old.

It will be about a month before they’re ready to leave mum, but preadoption is available now! Secure one of these cuties before they’re snapped up.

In the meantime, we could really use donations of:
🐾 Kitten wet food (to help these babies grow big and strong!)
🐾 Litter (because, well… you know!)

💰 Adoption Fees:
🐾 Females: $220 (Increasing to $250 on March 1st to help cover vet fees—desexing, vaccinating, and microchipping female cats costs at a minimum over $300!)
🐾 Males: $190
✅ All adoptions include desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments.
🚫 No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted.

📍 Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM
📞 Contact: 4092 3060

Let’s get these babies preadopted and find their mum a loving home too! If you’d like to donate food or litter, feel free to drop it off at the refuge. Every little bit helps! 🐱❤️

Hands Up! 🙌 Who Wants to Help Save More Lives This Rescue Month? 🐶❤️We’re SO excited to be part of Rescue Month in partn...
06/02/2025

Hands Up! 🙌 Who Wants to Help Save More Lives This Rescue Month? 🐶❤️

We’re SO excited to be part of Rescue Month in partnership with SavourLife and the Petbarn Foundation!

Here’s how YOU can help:

🐾 The Petbarn Foundation has donated $200,000 to help rescue pups from pounds.
🐾 SavourLife will match up to another $200,000 in donations when you buy their food during February!
🐾 The goal? Help 40 rescue groups save 400 pups across Australia in February!

Every bag of SavourLife you purchase this month not only helps you save 20% off your dog’s favourite food and treats, but it also directly supports rescues like ours.

Meet Lockie and Leroy! 🐕💙
Lockie (Black and white) and Leroy were two of the first pups we were able to safely pull from the pound when their time ran out – and it’s all thanks to the incredible support from SavourLife and Petbarn. Without this program, Lockie and Leroy's future could have been very different. But now, they are thriving in our care and just waiting for their forever families!

When you buy SavourLife products this month, you’re helping us save more pups like Lockie and Leroy, giving them the second chance they deserve.

Let’s hit that $200,000 donation target together and save even more lives! 🙌

🐾 🐾

🔧 Tool Spotlight: Rivet! 🔧Rivet is the perfect mix of playfulness, intelligence, and affection. This clever boy picks up...
06/02/2025

🔧 Tool Spotlight: Rivet! 🔧

Rivet is the perfect mix of playfulness, intelligence, and affection. This clever boy picks up new skills quickly and would thrive with ongoing training. He’s full of personality and always up for an adventure—plus, let’s not forget his adorable ears! 🥰

Breed: Bull Arab x Cattle
DOB: 15.09.24
Expected Size: Medium/Large (20-25kg)
Energy: Medium

🐾 Compatibility
✅ Good with kids – Friendly but still perfecting his manners.
✅ Good with other dogs – very playful!
🐾 Great age to introduce to different animals!

Like all puppies, Rivet needs committed owners who are ready for the responsibility of training, socializing, and helping him grow into the best dog he can be!

📍 Visit Us: Mareeba Animal Refuge, 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
🕘 Open Hours: 8am - 4pm, 7 days a week
📞 Contact Us: 4092 3060

💰 Adoption Fee: $350 (includes desexing, C5 vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date flea, tick, worm, and heartworm preventatives).
Payment Methods: Sorry, NO EFTPOS facilities. Cash or bank transfer accepted.

🐶 Rivet is ready for his forever family—could that be you? Come meet him! 🐶

🐾 Mama’s Boy – Meet Eli & His Sweet Mum! 🐾Is there anything cuter than cats cuddling? We don’t think so! Just look at El...
05/02/2025

🐾 Mama’s Boy – Meet Eli & His Sweet Mum! 🐾

Is there anything cuter than cats cuddling? We don’t think so! Just look at Eli snuggled up with his mum. 🥰

Eli is our newest kitten in care, and he’s excited to be looking for his forever family. At just 8 weeks old, this little guy is full of kitten playfulness and affection—and he’s ready to go home now!

His mum is a gentle and doting girl who has done an amazing job raising her boy. Now, she’s looking for her own happy ending too!

But… she needs a name!
Can you help us name this beautiful mumma? Drop your suggestions in the comments below! 👇

Let’s find both Eli and his mum the loving homes they deserve.

💰 Adoption Fees:
🐾 Females: $220 (Increasing to $250 on March 1st to —did you know desexing, vaccinating, and microchipping female cats costs over $300 at a minimum?)
🐾 Males: $190
✅ All adoptions include desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments.
🚫 No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted.

📍 Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM
📞 Contact: 4092 3060

Come meet Eli and his lovely mum—they’re ready to bring love and cuddles into your home! 🐱❤️

05/02/2025

Come say hello to Jennifer and Thea in the Mareeba IGA complex tomorrow morning. They will have our $2 & $5 hundred boards; our fundraising calendars; and liver treats.

No Mareeba markets this Saturday but Cherie and Vera will be at the Atherton Indoor Markets, Merriland Hall on Sunday morning. Weather permitting the Ambassadogs, Nevada and Bonny may make a visit.

🐾🐕 Available Dogs and Puppies! 🐕🐾 We’re off to a huge start this February as we join SavourLife and Petbarn in celebrat...
05/02/2025

🐾🐕 Available Dogs and Puppies! 🐕🐾

We’re off to a huge start this February as we join SavourLife and Petbarn in celebrating Rescue Month! In just the first 2 days, we’ve already welcomed 7 new pound pups into our care, each one eager for a second chance at a loving home. 💕

Rescue Month is all about raising awareness for the thousands of rescue dogs in need. Sadly, when puppies and dogs end up in pounds through no fault of their own, their futures can be uncertain – and often tragic.

This February, the Petbarn Foundation has donated $200,000 between 40 rescue groups to help save pups from pounds. When you buy SavourLife food during Rescue Month, they’ll match up to another $200,000 in donations, with the goal of helping rescues save 400 pups! 💖

Why Now is the Best Time to Adopt!
Starting March 1st, our adoption fees will be increasing to help cover rising costs of vet care and supplies. More details here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14PgoWsmM5/

So, if you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, now’s the perfect time to do it!

When you adopt from us, your fee includes:
✅ Desexing
✅ C5 vaccination
✅ Microchipping
✅ Up-to-date flea, tick, worm, and heartworm preventatives

Plus, you’ll be giving a deserving dog the loving home they’ve been waiting for and create space for another desperate soul needing rescue! 🐶❤️

Meet Our Available Dogs!
From tiny pups to gentle giants, we have an incredible range of dogs waiting to meet you. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure buddy or a laid-back companion, we’ve got the perfect match for you.

📍 Visit Us: Mareeba Animal Refuge, 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 8am to 4pm, 7 days a week
📞 Contact Us: Call us at 4092 3060

Payment Methods: Sorry, NO EFTPOS facilities. Cash or bank transfer accepted.

🐾 Can’t Adopt? You Can Still Help!
Volunteer: We always need extra hands to walk, socialize, and play with our dogs!
Foster: Give a pup a temporary home while they wait for their forever family.
Donate: Every little bit helps us continue rescuing and caring for dogs in need.
Share: Like, comment, and share our posts to help more people see our pups!

Let’s make Rescue Month one to remember! Help us find loving homes for our beautiful dogs and keep saving lives. 🐶💖

Domino brings you this week's Weird Pose Wednesday
05/02/2025

Domino brings you this week's Weird Pose Wednesday

ADOPTED ❤️While we’re very slowly getting closer to our goal of emptying the cattery for a much-needed deep clean, we’ve...
04/02/2025

ADOPTED ❤️

While we’re very slowly getting closer to our goal of emptying the cattery for a much-needed deep clean, we’ve had a few new faces join us from the council after running out of time. There will be a new post coming soon with all our available feline friends but today, we want to introduce you to one very special boy…

Meet Bill!

This handsome 4-year-old may have just a bit of a cranky face, but don’t let that fool you—he’s an absolute sweetheart and a true gentleman. Bill was found near Emerald Creek Ice-Creamery, but sadly, no one came looking for him and he wasn’t microchipped.

Now, Bill is looking forward to a bright future in a safe and loving home. He’s affectionate, easygoing, and ready to be your best friend. He hasn't had any problems with the other cats so should be good in a multi-cat household. Unsure of dogs but trials are available!

Black and white cats can often struggle in finding homes but we hope that isn't the case for beautiful Bill!

So could you be the one to give Bill the forever home he deserves?

💰 Adoption Fee: $190
✅ Includes desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments.
🚫 No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted.

📍 Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM
📞 Contact: 4092 3060

Come meet Bill—he may have a cranky face, but he’s got the biggest heart! 🐱❤️

We’re thrilled to announce that Mareeba Animal Refuge has been chosen as one of the rescue groups involved in this year'...
04/02/2025

We’re thrilled to announce that Mareeba Animal Refuge has been chosen as one of the rescue groups involved in this year's Rescue Month, thanks to the incredible support of the Petbarn Foundation and SavourLife!

We are honoured to be selected and excited about the impact we can make for our pound puppies. About 80% of our intakes come directly from local pounds. Already in January alone, we welcomed 14 dogs and 21 cats from local councils into our care. (Plus 19 dog surrenders and 6 cat surrenders).

This donation will go a long way in helping us continue saving lives, and we can’t wait to share more about how it will help us in the coming weeks!

Be sure to support SavourLife and Petbarn—without them, Rescue Month wouldn’t be possible. Check out the details in the post below to see how you can help!

Let’s give these pups the second chance they deserve! 🐶

February is Rescue Month! And this year we’re partnering with the Petbarn Foundation to help make a bigger impact than ever!

The Petbarn Foundation have donated $200k to help save pups from pounds. When you buy SavourLife food during Rescue Month we will match up to $200k in donations, with a goal of helping 40 rescue groups save 400 pups! 🐶

When puppies and dogs end up in pounds through no fault of their own, their future is uncertain and sadly often tragic. Together with our incredible rescue partners we are committed to making sure that as many of these pups get the second chance that they deserve.

By buying SavourLife this month not only will you help our rescue partners save lives, you’ll also save 20% off your dog’s favourite food and treats – let’s do this together! 🙌

Find out more about Rescue Month below 👇
https://www.petbarn.com.au/rescue-month

Good morning! Anyone have time today to help walk our pups before the rain comes back? Our fantastic Bill is here on his...
03/02/2025

Good morning! Anyone have time today to help walk our pups before the rain comes back?

Our fantastic Bill is here on his own this morning and has walked most of our adults! 🥰

03/02/2025
📢 Important Notice: Adoption Fee Increases Starting March 1st 📢As much as we strive to keep adoption costs affordable, t...
03/02/2025

📢 Important Notice: Adoption Fee Increases Starting March 1st 📢

As much as we strive to keep adoption costs affordable, the rising costs of rescue mean we must adjust our fees to continue our vital work. While this decision was NOT made lightly, it is necessary to ensure we can keep our doors open and continue saving lives. 🐾💖

New Adoption Fees. Effective March 1st:
🐶 Dogs & Puppies:
Puppies (6 months & under): $400 ($50 increase)
Medium and Large Female Dogs: $400 ($50 increase)
Medium and Large Male Dogs: $350 (no change)
Small breed male and female: $500 (no change)

🐱 Cats:
Male Cats: $190 (no change)
Female Cats: $250 ($30 increase)

Costs will be evaluated for each animal. In the case of elderly pets or those with vet work already completed then cheaper fees may apply.

Why the Increase?
The cost of rescuing animals has soared.
On average for desexing, vaccinating, and microchipping.
Dogs cost $300-$600
Cats cost $150-$400

Our average monthly bill has increased to $7000 - $10000.

The costs are even with generous subsidies from our amazing vet partners.

But that’s just the start. We also cover:
🪱 Ongoing parasite treatments while in care (flea, tick, heartworm, worming)
💊Medications for wounds, illnesses, or other ailments
🥩 Feeding and enrichment
💦 Cleaning and day-to-day care
🏠 Shelter amenities and upkeep
🚗 Transport for rescues and more

These costs add up quickly, and without adjusting our fees, we risk closure of our rescue operations.

Adopt Before March 1st for Current Pricing!
There’s still time to adopt at our current rates:
🐶 $350 for all medium and large dogs & puppies
🐾 $500 for small breeds
🐱 $190 for male cats
🐱 $220 for female cats

🎉 PLUS: We still have 3 discounted kitties available for just $100!

We hope to continue seeing your support despite these changes. Every adoption saves a life and helps us rescue even more animals in need. Thank you for being part of our mission! 💕

📍 Visit us at Mareeba Animal Refuge, 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba.
📞 Call us at 4092 3060 for more information.

🐾 And Then There Were 3! 🐾With Alora’s adoption yesterday, we are down to just THREE long-term kitties still waiting for...
01/02/2025

🐾 And Then There Were 3! 🐾

With Alora’s adoption yesterday, we are down to just THREE long-term kitties still waiting for their forever families! These amazing cats have been patiently waiting, and we would love to see them find homes ASAP!

🐾 Ally – Our longest-term queen, playful, sassy, and full of love. She’s 4 years old and ready to rule her new home! Tolerates other cats and would do better in a home environment. Due to a past experience, no dog friends for Ally.
🐾 Chet – A charming black boy who’s a total smooch and loves affection. Better suited as an only kitty or may be ok with a female companion. Confident and would likely adjust to a doggy friend given time.
🐾 Magnus – The smooch lord and chatterbox who’s always ready for love and conversation. A laid back and chilled out boy who would do well with other cats and likely dogs too.

These kitties have been overlooked for far too long, and they deserve a chance to be part of a loving family. Do you think we can see them all adopted today?! 🤞❤️🙏😺

💰 Adoption Fee: Just $100 thanks to a generous donation!
✅ Includes desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments.
🚫 No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted.

📍 Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba
⏰ Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM
📞 Contact: 4092 3060

Please share, visit, or tag someone who’s looking for a feline friend—let’s find Ally, Chet, and Magnus their forever homes! 🐱❤️

Address

35 Hickling Avenue
Mareeba, QLD
4880

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm
Saturday 8am - 4pm
Sunday 8am - 4pm

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🇦🇺 Open Regular Hours This Australia Day and Public Holiday! 🇦🇺 Looking for something fun to do this long weekend? Why not stop by the refuge? 🐾 📅 We’re open 8am to 4pm Australia Day and tomorrow’s public holiday. 🐶 Play with the puppies! 🐱 Cuddle the kitties! 💖 You might even meet your new best friend! Come by, spend some time with our adorable rescue animals, and maybe take the first step toward giving one a loving forever home. 🏡 We’d love to see you here! #AustraliaDay #AdoptDontShop #MareebaAnimalRefuge #SupportAnimalRescue

🌭 We’re All Set Up at Bunnings Atherton – Come Say Hi! 🌭 Today’s the day to grab a delicious bite, support your local rescue, meet rescue pup Murphy and maybe win some awesome prizes! What’s Happening: Sausage Sizzle: $3.50 Drinks: $2 Combo: $5 🎟️ Money Boards: $2 for a chance to win $100 $5 for a chance to win $250 📅 Discounted 2025 Calendars: Just $10! 🐾 Charms by Donation: Anything over $10 helps us care for more animals! A massive thank you to our incredible team who made today possible: 👏 Our new volunteers, Sharon and Stephanie—welcome to the team! 👏 Our regular volunteers and staff: Felicity, Sarah, Cherie, and Kerry—you are all amazing! Every sausage, drink, and ticket sold goes directly to helping animals in need. Come by, grab a snack, and show your support! 🐶🐱 #SausageSizzle #SupportAnimalRescue #MareebaAnimalRefuge #BunningsAtherton

Murphy’s Day Out! Murphy had an absolutely fantastic day yesterday with one of our amazing volunteers! He had a blast swimming, playing fetch, and soaking up all the attention. This active and fun-loving boy would thrive in a home where he can have adventures like this. Murphy is not just energetic but also affectionate, making him the perfect companion for an active family or individual. He’s been back in care for a short time now and is ready to find his forever home again. Let’s help him make it happen! Murphy’s Adoption Details Breed: Kelpie x Gender: Male DOB: 08.11.21 Size: Medium (24kg) Energy Level: High Adoption Fee: $350 (includes desexing, C5 vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date flea, tick, worm, and heartworm preventatives) Payment Methods: Sorry NO EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted. Compatibility: Other Dogs: Good with other dogs. Playful but respectful as well. Other Animals: NOT good with wildlife, cats, or chickens. 📍 Visit Us: Mareeba Animal Refuge, 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba 🕗 Open Hours: 8am to 4pm, 7 days a week 📞 Contact Us: Call 4092 3060 🐾 Payment Methods: Sorry, NO EFTPOS facilities. Cash or direct deposit accepted. Let’s get Murphy adopted and into a home where he can have the love and fun he deserves! 🐶 #AdoptMurphy #ForeverHome #ActiveDog

Chatty Kitties: Lychee & Magnus Need Homes! 🐾 Both Lychee and Magnus, our most talkative and charming cats, are now reduced to just $100 each thanks to an unbelievably kind donation! These two are full of personality and love to chat with their humans: Lychee: A gorgeous and social girl who adores attention and has so much love to give. Magnus: A big, handsome boy with a playful and engaging personality. He’ll always keep you entertained with his chatter and charm. Now all they need is a loving home to make their dreams come true. Could it be with you? Adoption Details: Adoption Fee: $100, including desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments. No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted. Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM Contact: 4092 3060 Let’s find these chatty kitties the homes they deserve—share, visit, and help us spread the word! 🐱❤️

🐾 Chatty Cats Spotlight: Lychee & Magnus 🐾 Meet Lychee and Magnus, two of our most talkative kitties who love to chat and share their thoughts! Whether it’s a friendly meow for attention or a soft purr of contentment, these two will keep you company and bring joy to your home. Our cattery is desperate for adoptions, and we’d love to see these kitties find their forever homes. Come for a Visit! No bookings required—just drop in, spend some time with our cats and kittens, and find your purrfect match! Adoption Details: Adoption Fees: $220 for females, $190 for males, including desexing, vaccination, microchipping, and up-to-date worm treatments. No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash or direct deposit accepted. Location: 35 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba Open Hours: 7 Days a Week, 8 AM to 4 PM Contact: 4092 3060 Lychee, Magnus, and so many others are waiting—could one of them be your perfect companion? 🐱❤️

🎄 2 Weeks Left to Grab Your Tickets! 🎄 Time is ticking! There are just 2 weeks left to secure your tickets for our Mega Christmas Pet Raffle. 🎁 With so many prizes and multiple winners, this is your chance to win big while supporting rescue animals at Mareeba Animal Refuge. 🎟️ Tickets: $2 each or 3 for $5 Available in person at the refuge or online—just send us a message to arrange your tickets! 📅 Draw Date: Christmas Eve Don’t miss your chance to make this Christmas extra special for you and our furry friends. 💖 Every ticket sold helps us provide care and shelter for animals in need. Thank you for your support! #MegaChristmasRaffle #WinBigGiveBack #SupportAnimalRescue #MareebaAnimalRefuge

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