Community
21 November, 2025
New vehicle a vital boost for sanctuary
The Southern Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary (SHWS) has received a vital boost with the donation of a new four-wheel drive vehicle thanks to the support of Suzuki Australia/Moss Vale Suzuki and Spartan Creative.
The Southern Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary (SHWS) has received a vital boost with the donation of a new four-wheel drive vehicle thanks to the support of Suzuki Australia/Moss Vale Suzuki and Spartan Creative.
The vehicle will be used in the sanctuary’s wildlife rescue and field operations across the Bundanoon and Morton National Park areas.
SHWS says the 4x4 will help strengthen the sanctuary’s rescue, monitoring and research activities across rough bush terrain.
“This vehicle will help us reach animals we simply couldn’t get to before,” said co-founder John Creighton.
“It gives us the ability to manage the frontline work that matters most, like treating mange in local wombat populations, checking pouches for pinkies after road incidents and responding quickly when wildlife is in trouble.”
The 5-door Jimny XL offers increased storage for rescue equipment, improved access for volunteers, and key safety upgrades including rear parking sensors, dual camera brake support and additional doors for faster gear loading at field sites.
Its compact 4WD build makes it ideal for navigating narrow fire trails, steep access tracks, and muddy paddocks.
Co-founder Peter Lewis said the support from local and global businesses sends a strong message about what the region values.
“When organisations step up to support our work, it shows how important our long-term goals are for the Southern Highlands,” he said.
“This is more than a vehicle. It’s a sign that our community wants to see real conservation progress.”
The Jimny XL will be used immediately in wombat mange treatment rounds, callouts, monitoring, acoustic survey support and other works linked to SHWS’s expanding research partnerships.
SHWS expressed deep appreciation to both local businesses for backing hands-on wildlife work.
“We’re grateful to Brian at Moss Vale Suzuki and Simon (Weston) at Spartan Creative for believing in what we’re building here,” Mr Lewis said.
“Their support helps us protect native wildlife today, while laying the groundwork for recovery tomorrow.”
· For more information or to support the sanctuary’s rescue and conservation programs, visit southernhighlandswildlifesanctuary.org.au
Read More: Moss Vale, Southern Highlands, Bundanoon