Anita goes to rescue for village
TRAVELLING to Cambodia earlier this year, animal-lover Anita Green stumbled across a heartbreaking situation, but thanks to the donations of the Rockhampton community this could all change.
In January Anita went to Kampong Cham as part of a mission led by Heartland International, a cross denominational Christian mission, aid and development organisation.
While Anita said she was amazed to see the growth and positive changes occurring there, she was equally amazed to hear of the struggles facing agricultural vets.
"I spoke with a very passionate vet and he told me when they look at sick animals they don't have the equipment to find out what's wrong with them," she said.
"A lot of help is focussed on the people, but as someone with an animal background I wanted to help the animals as well."
Anita, who has worked as a zoo keeper at the Australia Zoo and has a long history in the thoroughbred racing industry, said she came back to Rockhampton inspired to help the struggling vet.
Anita said the Rockhampton Veterinary Clinic had donated a microscope to be taken back to the village.
"This will mean the vets there will be able to check the animal's blood, take samples and get a better idea of what is wrong with them," she said.
Anita said the Cambodian community relied heavily on animals for their livelihood and this donation would open a whole new door for them.
"If they have access to this type of equipment it makes it so much easier and things flow better in the community."
Anita said two students that were sponsored through agricultural college by Heartland had plans to set up a vet clinic there.
Founder of Heartland International, Andrew Cook, said in their eight years of operation much of their success could be attributed to people who gave generously.
"It is the contributions, prayer and goodwill of people ... that provide us with the inspiration, resources and energy to continue our work."
