Australian wildfires
The response to the crisis from the crafting community has been incredible, knitters from all around the world have been donating to animals in need...
The world has felt helpless as it has watched wildfires ravage Australia, and we have been inundated with pictures and videos of injured wildlife across the media. However, despite being thousands of miles away, knitters across the globe have been selflessly dedicating their time and yarn to making items to donate to rescue centres. Koalas and other smaller animals have been significantly injured and killed during the fires as they are naturally slow-movers which makes it di cult for them to outrun the fires. From pouches for baby kangaroos, warm blankets for injured bats and knitted mittens for koalas, knitters have been donating for many weeks now.
It is estimated that millions of animals have been killed so far in the fires, and sadly this figure could rise with injured animals. However, the drama won’t end when the fires cease to burn. With the natural habitat destroyed for so many animals, they will need warmth and shelter, and this is where you can help.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
It’s important to note when knitting items for injured animals, that there are specific requirements on the yarn used – only natural, and also cotton lining is required. This is due to the nature of the wounds and burns which are extremely delicate and can easily be irritated by fabrics.
HOW YOU CAN HELP!
We’ve put together a list of charities and organisations who require knitted donations on our website, www. Gathered.how, we advise checking with each individual organisation directly to confirm which items they require. Visit www.gathered.production. wcp.imdserve.com/ knitting-and-crochet/ crafting-to-help-australianwildlife/. Please do feel free to send in any pictures and update us on your knitting and donations at simply. knitting@immediate.co.uk.