STUMPED for the perfect gift for the man that has everything this Father’s Day?

Jump online and visit Port Stephens Koala Hospital and give Dad the gift of supporting a living breathing wombat or possum!

Giving Dad this gift doesn’t mean he has to clean up after an animal, but he will feel the pride and joy of supporting our native animals in care.

Erol, one of the native animals available for adoption, is an adorable two-year-old brushtail possum who loves everybody – especially those who give him carrots!

He was rescued by a member of the public in Charlestown and taken to the fabulous staff at the Koala Hospital, where it was discovered that Erol had a major wound and a fractured leg which makes it hard for him to get around.

Koala Hospital carers give Erol pats and cuddles and feed him “native browse” as well as a small amount of fruits and vegetables.

Erol’s future is uncertain, it is not yet clear whether he will be strong enough for release or if the Koala Hospital will be Erol’s home for a while due to his age and injuries.

Also up for adoption is Ronald, an orphaned wombat who is around eighteen-months-old and a truly fun character.

What happened to Ronald’s mother is unknown.

Ronald has a bottle once a day and is now eating fresh grass, chaff pellet, fresh hay root veggies and leafy greens.

If Ronald keeps eating like this he will be 40kg when he is fully grown!

Again for Ronald, like many of the native animals in care, the future is uncertain.

Of course you can give Dad a koala for Father’s Day too, but if he is already a sponsor of a koala perhaps he would enjoy caring for more animals.

Many of Australia’s native animal populations are under stress after the Black Summer Fires.

Your Father’s Day gift could make a very real difference.

So rather than stumping up with socks and jocks that dad really doesn’t need, give him the best gift ever – give life and hope to wildlife in need at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital.

By Marian SAMPSON