Include a Charity Week runs from 2-8 September. This social change campaign endeavors to highlight the benefits of charitable giving so that, over time, gifts in wills become the norm and allow more Australians to make their mark. We hope that you may consider a gift in will to support the Penguin Foundation.

In March 2022, the Penguin Foundation was a grateful recipient of a generous gift from the estate of the late Maxine Porter, dedicated to Koala Conservation. “This gift was a heartfelt tribute from someone whose passion for wildlife began in her childhood”, her niece Christine recalled.

“Maxine often shared fondly her memories of her first sighting of penguins on a family bus tour to Philip Island. It was a moment, she said, that ignited her lifelong love for animals. Her beautiful garden, filled with native plants, was a testament to her commitment to local wildlife.”

Maxine’s legacy has made a very tangible impact, directing funds towards the much-needed refurbishment of the koala pens at the Koala Conservation Reserve. These pens are crucial for the Nature Parks conservation team, who provide care for sick and injured koalas. After the devastating Black Summer bushfires of 2019/2020, the team identified significant areas needing improvement. The refurbishment included new runways for the six pens, enhancing access to feed stations for the koalas and making the pens more user-friendly for the rangers.

“Thanks to Maxine’s incredible gift, we now have facilities that significantly improve the care we can provide,” said Lachlan Sipthorp, Senior Ranger at the Koala Conservation Reserve. “Her legacy will ensure that koalas receive the highest quality of care for years to come.”

Leaving a gift in your Will to the Penguin Foundation is a powerful way to create lasting change. This week, as part of Include a Charity Week, we highlight how such gifts can profoundly impact conservation efforts. To learn more about how you can support the Penguin Foundation through a gift in your Will, please contact Executive Officer Rebecca Passlow at rpasslow@penguins.org.au or by phone at 0492 369 875.

Your support can make a world of difference.