Australian musician Warren Ellis has provided financial backing to a sanctuary dedicated to the protection of Indonesian wildlife.
The Dirty Three/Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds member’s support has enabled the expansion of the Sumatran Wildlife Centre, a facility for the rehabilitation of victims of the illegal wildlife trade established by veterinary paramedic Femke den Haas.
The Centre now includes the adjoining Ellis Park, a 5000 square metre sanctuary to house animals too traumatised or handicapped to be released back into the wild.
“I was first introduced to Femke and her work with animal protection in Indonesia by my old mate Lorinda Jane in February 2021,” Ellis said.
“Within the space of 30 seconds I knew I wanted to support Femke and her cause … I was blown away by what she has achieved, she is a force of nature.”
Ellis Park is also due to be used to educate locals and tourists about the negative impacts of wildlife smuggling and the illegal pet trade.
SAM WORRAD