In WIRES (Australian Wildlife Rescue) history, the organisation has never seen a concurrent series of emergency events like those that began in the latter half of 2019 and continue, with the unprecedented bushfire season of 2019/20 in Australia. Hundreds of fires over weeks have burnt over 6 million hectares of land in NSW alone and many animals, already struggling with a lack of water and food due to the drought, have seen their habitat destroyed.
There are still over 100 fires burning in NSW. In December alone there were over 20,000 calls to WIRES 1300 line, a 14% increase on last year, and volunteers attended over 3,300 rescues.
Élysée Collective and World Resorts of Distinction (WRD) has joined forces to launch Australian Spirit Soars, a silent auction to aid the country’s rural communities and our native wildlife.
Teaming up with its band of exceptional clients, the two week initiative will continue until 5pm on Monday, 27 January, 2020, with all proceeds being directed to WIRES Wildlife Rescue, who are working tirelessly to help save and protect Australia’s animals.
In the first 24 hours since launch the auction had already raised more than USD$20,000
Presently 15 luxury travel packages – with more anticipated to come on board – have been contributed to the auction by some of the world’s most esteemed resorts, hotels and lodges including Aman, Soneva, Raes on Wategos, Nihi Sumba, Bawah Reserve, Vakkaru Maldives, Tokoriki Island Resort, Resplendent Ceylon, Sinalei Reef Resort and many more.
Examples available include a 5-night stay at Soneva Fushi or Soneva Kiri, a 2-night stay at Raes on Wategos, a 5-night stay at Nihi Sumba and a 5-night stay at Bawah Reserve.
Packages vary in value from USD$690 to USD$22,000 USD.
“The travel industry is a close knit one, both in Australia and around the world. In light of these tragic events our country have faced, we’ve been amazed at the support shown from around the world to help our nation in this time of crisis,” said Élysée Collective Director Alice Moore.
“Our beloved country is burning and its inhabitants are choking. More than 250 metric tonnes of CO2, half our annual output, have been emitted as a result of these fires, making the effect on our planet, animals and the environment catastrophic. We are beyond grateful our travel industry friends from around the world are so eager to help in any way they can,” WRD CEO Tess Willcox said.
Terms and Conditions apply.
IMAGE: Rae’s on Wategos – Elysee Collective
