Anthony Ostigh, a resident of Boddington, is an unlikely hero in the world of kangaroo care. Despite the licensing hurdles, he dedicates his time to orphaned joeys, providing them with the care and attention they need to thrive. Anthony, who goes by the nickname 'Oz', is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. He often wanders around town wearing a stockman's hat and a crochet bag, carrying an eight-month-old joey named Roofus. Anthony's passion for caring for vulnerable kangaroos began as a child, and he has since become the town's unsanctioned kangaroo carer. While he is not a registered wildlife carer, as required by Western Australian law, he does the job because the nearest registered carer is over 100km away, and because he believes it is his life's calling. Anthony's dedication to the joeys is remarkable, as he brings them along on his daily errands, including to the pub and grocery store. This unique approach to kangaroo care has earned him the admiration of the local community, who appreciate his kindness and willingness to help injured animals. However, Anthony's work is not without controversy. In order to care for wildlife in Western Australia, a license from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is required. Many carers, like Anthony, are forced to work 'underground' without official clearances due to the rigorous licensing process. Despite this, Anthony continues to care for the joeys, driven by his passion and a sense of duty to the animals in need. His story is a testament to the power of individual action and the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
