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A BRIGHTER FUTURE



Each year in the Northern Rivers, hundreds of cats and dogs find

themselves lost, abandoned, or surrendered by their owners. In

2024 alone, Northern Rivers Animal Services (NRAS) took in 155

surrendered dogs and 139 surrendered cats—startling figures

that highlight the ongoing need for animal welfare support in the

region. Yet, thanks to the tireless efforts of this self-funded, not-

for-profit charity, 136 dogs and 114 cats were rehomed, marking a

new chapter for these animals.


Based in Ballina, NRAS has been transforming the lives of animals

in need since 2001. What began as a modest operation run out

of the back of their Op Shop on River Street has grown into a

vital resource for the community. For years, the organisation

relied solely on foster carers to house animals in need, but in

2013, NRAS took a bold step forward by purchasing Ballina

Council’s old pound. By 2016, after extensive fundraising and

renovations, the dream of a purpose-built shelter became a reality

at 61 Piper Drive.


Today, this facility is a sanctuary for animals awaiting their forever

homes. The shelter features seven operational kennels with

outdoor exercise areas, as well as a purpose-built cat cottage

with spacious ‘condo-style’ housing and outdoor exercise yards,

which include gardens and play structures.


Beyond offering food, shelter and medical care, NRAS is

committed to tackling the root causes of animal overpopulation.

Their Subsidised Desexing Scheme (SDS) allocates $25,000

annually to assist low-income pet owners with desexing costs.

In 2024, this program facilitated the desexing of 73 dogs and126 cats, reducing the number of unwanted litters and ensuring

healthier lives for countless animals.


The heart of NRAS success lies in its dedicated community of

volunteers and foster carers. Volunteers support every aspect of

the charity, from caring for animals to running the Op Shop, which

serves as the main source of funding. Foster carers, meanwhile,

provide temporary homes and personalised care to animals waiting

for their forever families. Without these individuals, NRAS ability to

help animals would be significantly limited.


But the organisation’s work extends beyond care and adoption.

NRAS advocates for the value and well-being of cats and dogs

in society, promoting education to improve attitudes toward pet

ownership. Their goal? To achieve zero euthanasia rates for all

healthy and treatable animals.


Every donation and act of support makes a difference.

Funds raised go directly toward providing food, shelter and

medical care for animals in need. For those looking to make an

impact, there are many ways to help—whether by volunteering,

fostering, donating, or sponsoring an animal in care. Even

spreading the word about NRAS work creates ripples of change,

inspiring others to contribute.


By raising the value of companion animals and ensuring they

receive the care and respect they deserve, NRAS are building a

compassionate community where every pet has the chance to live

a happy life. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps create

brighter futures for the animals of the Northern Rivers.

To learn more or get involved, visit nras.org.au.





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