For the koalas: Fletcher Callahan visits senior keeper Judy O’Brien at Jirrahlinga to hand over his fundraiser proceeds.
TOM BENNETT
HE’S eight years old, loves animals and, according to those who know him, has a heart of gold.
Barwon Heads schoolboy Fletcher Callahan exhibited “maturity beyond his years” in raising money to help rebuild Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary’s koala hospital.
Fire destroyed the hospital and its veterinary facilities seven weeks ago.
Fletcher, a grade four student, was upset when he read about the blaze on the internet.
He wrote an impassioned letter to his teachers, asking for Barwon Heads Primary to support the restoration process.
He suggested a Lego exhibition featuring the creations of both staff and students, with a charge for admittance.
The school council agreed, with Fletcher’s event raising $468 for Jirrahlinga’s rebuilding project.
Fletcher said he was delighted the school adopted his idea.
“I was very proud and received lots of help from my classmates.
“I love animals, especially the koalas, so it was good that we could do something to help.”
Principal Darren Roskosch was impressed with his young student’s attitude and energy.
“Fletcher showed awareness, social concern and an ability to think of others,” Mr Roskosch said.
“He also exhibited great initiative in identifying a problem and then coming up with the solution.”
Jirrahlinga founder and codirector Tehree Gordon praised Fletcher.
“I was touched emotionally by his care and concern for animals,” she said.
“Because of that I have decided to sponsor a special award to the most environmentally aware student at Barwon Heads Primary for the next five years.”
