Nelson Bay residents organise support for shelter animals Nelson Bay (Tomaree Peninsula areas) Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - December 12, 2017 Rachael Roberts and Neville McDermott with a few of the donations so far. CHRISTMAS is a time for giving, charity and goodwill. Modern Media: Advertise with News Of The Area and you get your ad in 1) in Print, 2) on the News Website (like this ad), and 3) on our Social Media news site. A much more efficient way to advertise. Reach a HUGE audience for a LOW price TODAY! Call us on 02 4983 2134. Or media@newsofthearea.com.au Or CLICK FOR ADVERT QUOTE Many charities enjoy the public’s generosity at this time of year, and for many families, this is extremely helpful. But what about our disadvantaged animals? Or the animals that were a good idea for a present at the time, but didn’t turn out to be a good idea at all? Well, Nelson Bay residents Rachael Roberts and Neville McDermott are coming to their rescue. Rachael told News of the Area, “We are seeking any donations suitable for dogs of all sizes, cats, kittens, goats, pigs, horses and rabbits including toys, treats, beds, food, grooming supplies or anything that helps the shelter out, but mainly makes the animals time in the shelter a bit more special and exciting for them over the Christmas period.” The shelter that Rachael is referring to is the RSPCA’s Rutherford shelter. “We are doing it as both of us are huge animal lovers and we don’t have a big enough property or home to be able to adopt any of them ourselves,” she said. “It breaks our hearts thinking of them all in there without a forever home and families to spend Christmas with, so we wanted to do something to help in whatever way we can and this is what we thought of,” Rachael added. Rachael and Neville have always taken a bag of toys to the Rutherford shelter each Christmas, but wanted to try and do that little bit more this year by involving the local community. “We have been buying items ourselves over the last few months but would love the public’s help to step it up and make a bigger impact for these gorgeous animals,” Rachael said. Caring for animals has come as second nature for Rachael and Neville. Not only has Rachael previously worked as a vet assistant, but both have helped run a wildlife and kangaroo refuge previously in Wagga Wagga. If you would like to donate items or make a financial donation to the appeal, please contact Rachael on 0431120959 or rachael646@hotmail.com By Rachael VAUGHAN