Known as the Pelican Lady of Woy Woy Central Coast Australia, I'm a self-funded, "full-time" rescuer and rehabber of pelicans and other birds primarily impacted by recreational fishing but also toxic stormwater drain discharge. This is my 28th year of rescuing in this capacity including 15 years without public funding on the Central Coast.

I had purchased a replacement rescue van in late 2024 as my old van had rusted out due to over 10 years of "saltwater-based" rescue operations. Tragically early in 2025 my newer minivan was written off by an errant driver which has caused unimaginable disruption to my life and rescue service and other operations.

The funds will be used to repair my written off van as I've just gained permission to repair it by NSW Transport.

I'm humbly fundraising for support, as I can't afford to pay for the necessary van repairs on top of my average weekly rescue operational expenditure of $300. I've been surviving? on a "disability support pension" for 20 years due to suffering with PTSD as a result of the traumatic nature of my rescue work.

I wish to sincerely thank all kind and empathetic donors in advance, as your critical help will enable me to continue my full-time dedication to ameliorate and prevent the suffering of many more birds due to recreational fishing interaction, and unmanaged toxic drains.

Please share my page with any supporters of "proactive wildlife welfare operations!"

Warmest Regards

Wendy Gillespie MSc, BSc, ETc

Pelican Rescuer and Researcher

Pelican Specialist Group Member (Global)

IUCN Member

Birds Australia Member