General News
19 August, 2026
Initiative to break the cycle
THE Mareeba Animal Refuge is stepping up to break the cycle of unplanned animal litters, with 18 local pets taking part in the first round of its community desexing program.
The refuge was nominated for a Kmart Community Neighbourhood Grant by K Hub Mareeba and received $4,500 to put towards a community initiative.
“When deciding how we could make the biggest impact with the funding, we felt that helping local pet owners with the cost of desexing was one of the most meaningful ways we could use it,” refuge staffer Felicity Pollard said.
That’s when the Break the Cycle Community Desexing Program was born.
“The response really highlighted just how much this type of assistance is needed,” Felicity said.
“The entire $4,500 was allocated within just one month, with 12 cats and six dogs from our local community now desexed through the program.
“From a rescue perspective, desexing is incredibly important. Every animal desexed through this program means more animals in the future won’t find themselves homeless, surrendered, or adding further pressure to already stretched rescue services.
“People want to do the responsible thing for their pets, but sometimes the cost is simply beyond their reach. We’re incredibly grateful to our local K Hub for nominating us and to Kmart for providing the funding.”
Felicity added that the refuge was approved for an additional $4,500 in funding from the Mareeba Shire Council just last week.
“The funding is again limited, with half being available now and half coming in January 2027,” she said.
“There are a few more requirements this time, so enquiries can be made via calling 4092 3060 or by emailing hello@mareebaanimalrefuge.org.au.”
Beyond this, the organisation will continue to look for grants or sponsorship to continue it long term.
“The program can only operate when grants, donations, or sponsorship funding become available,” Felicity said.
“For us, prevention is one of the best long term investments that can be made in animal welfare. Funding desexing today can prevent entire unwanted litters tomorrow.
“Hopefully, with further community, business, or grant support, Break the Cycle can continue and help even more local families into the future.”
