Knittin' Group stitchin' for a good cause

In the wake of the catastrophic bushfires gripping the region, big-hearted community members have found countless ways to support those impacted by the devastating crisis.

From financial donations to dropping off goods, making blood donations and even offering evacuees a place to stay, the best of humanity has been on show.

On Thursday a large group of community members took an opportunity to rally behind another worthwhile cause by taking part in a special knitting session inside the Wagga Wagga City Library.

Regular knitters, sometimes knitters and even first-timers put their needles and yarn to good use, creating snug and secure pouches for injured, abandoned and orphaned wildlife.

“When young animals, including wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, bandicoots, gliders and possums, come into care they need to be kept warm and in a quiet space,” WIRES volunteer Glenda Pym said.

To achieve this sort of safe and calm environment, WIRES volunteers use these specially made pouches. “We are always in need of suitable pouches.”

Due to the fact the pouches are used for a diverse selection of animals, WIRES required a broad range of different sized pouches.

“There are so many kind and compassionate people who want to help our wildlife but are unable to commit to animal rescue or care,” Mrs Pym said.

“By getting involved in making pouches or pouch linings, people can play a really important role in looking after our gorgeous, native wildlife.”

Team Leader Programs, Promotions and Partnerships Christine Bolton was thrilled with the response to the knitting day.

“It was truly inspiring to see how many people stopped by to lend a hand,” Ms Bolton said.

“There was a real sense of camaraderie between all the knitters. It was beautiful to see.”

The core of the group who participated in the event on Thursday, meet bimonthly inside at the library as part of The Knittin’ Group.

“All the members of the group are very committed and community-minded,” Ms Bolton said.

“During the year they knit and crochet for a number of charities. “New members are always welcome.”

The Group will meet again at the library on the next two Tuesdays, January 21 and 28, from 10am to 12 noon.