The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) 3 Burwood Highway, Burwood East VIC 3151 P 03 9224 2222 F 03 9224 2200 www.rspcavic.org ACN 131 965 761 ABN 56 749 449 191 RSPCA Victoria Annual Report 2010
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Contents
04 RSPCA profile 05 Vision, objectives and values 06 The year at a glance 08 The year ahead 10 President’s report 12 RSPCA Directors 14 CEO’s report 16 Organisational effectiveness 18 Developing our people 20 Engaging Victorians 22 Campaigning for change 24 Supporting bushfire communtities 26 Inspectorate 30 Enhancing the Five Freedoms for animals - veterinary care 32 Enhancing the Five Freedoms for animals - shelters 36 Community presence 40 Income generation 42 Major donors Cassandra D’Alessandro was one of the first students to graduate from our Certificate 43 Corporate partners II in Animal Studies course. This interactive 10 week-course offered by the RSPCA and 44 Honorary Life Members Victoria University, was introduced in 2009. With the help of education animals such 45 Bequests and Trusts as the much-loved Penny (featured with Cassandra), the program provides a fantastic opportunity for high school students to expand their companion animal knowledge and 46 Financial report learn the skills required to work in the animal care industry. 59 RSPCA contact details
RSPCA profile
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) was established in Melbourne in 1871. Since this time, the RSPCA has become Australia’s leading animal welfare charity.
RSPCA Victoria is a member of RSPCA Australia (the federation of the eight state and territory RSPCAs in Australia). The RSPCA National Board consists of the Presidents or their nominees from each member Society, with the CEOs in attendance as advisors.
Across the state, the RSPCA’s community services include the work undertaken by our Inspectorate, Animal Shelters and Education teams. The RSPCA operates ten animal welfare shelters in Victoria, providing refuge and care and where possible, offering thousands of animals a second chance. Our team of RSPCA Inspectors works to protect animals from cruelty, investigates complaints, prosecutes offenders and rescues animals from dangerous situations. Our education team contributes to prevention strategies by influencing young people about the value and importance of animals in our lives.
The RSPCA works tirelessly to educate the community regarding animal welfare and to advocate for improved legislation. Legislative improvements to protect animals have been achieved at both state and federal levels, thanks to the continued Merlot and Cooper, two orphaned Eastern Grey Kangaroos, are survivors of the 2009 Victorian bushfires. lobbying of the RSPCA. Both of their mothers, who had bravely survived the bushfires, were hit by cars on exposed roadways whilst desperately searching for new feeding grounds. When found, Merlot and Cooper were both extremely As a not-for-profit organisation, the RSPCA relies on community underweight, so they needed to recover in the hands of experienced wildlife carers. Cooper became a support to care for ‘all creatures great and small’. Only 3% of constant companion for Merlot, helping to keep her warm and nursing her back to good health. They became the RSPCA’s operating expenses is supported by a grant from inseparable during their recovery and are nick-named ‘Romeo and Juliet’, a true story of survival and the Victorian State Government, so we truly are an organisation unconditional love. funded by the generous Victorian community. The RSPCA has provided ongoing emergency relief since the 2009 Victorian bushfires to many wildlife carers, including the Wildhaven Wildlife Shelter who have nurtured Merlot and Cooper back to good health.
4 That all animals, great and small, are: Free from hunger and thirst. Free from discomfort. Free from pain, injury and disease. Free to express normal behaviour. Free from fear and distress.
The RSPCA’s objectives are to promote and enhance the Accountability wellbeing of society and the welfare of its animals by: Preparedness to be held accountable for plans, actions and outcomes. Educating the Victorian community regarding the humane treatment and management of animals Professionalism and increasing public awareness of, and support for, Behaviour and standards that set the benchmark animal welfare. for other organisations. Enforcing the existing laws to prevent cruelty to animals. Integrity Soundness of judgment and honesty in everything Influencing the amendment or development of we do. legislation and standards considered necessary for the protection and welfare of animals. Openness Encouraging and providing a sustainable, needs- Transparency in our actions, decisions and results based network of animal welfare services across to all stakeholders. the state, for the care, shelter, treatment, rehabilitation, and protection of animals within the capacity and Creativity strategic directions of the organisation. Willingness to review current operations and implement new and innovative approaches that Providing relief programs to assist people within assist in achieving our overall objectives. the community who are experiencing adverse circumstances, to enable them to care for or manage their animals.
5 The year at a glance
Influencing legislative framework, enforcement Project an engaging professional image to Build a low-cost organisation that and funding for animal welfare programs. a broad audience. achieves outcomes. Influencing attitudes by implementing Develop, implement and evaluate an education programs to raise the knowledge, integrated program(s) to enhance the Five • We increased the RSPCA’s presence at • The RSPCA Victoria Board initiated a skills and public support for animal welfare. Freedoms for animals. community festivals including local council comprehensive risk management analysis microchipping days. for the organisation. • This year we launched our puppy factory • This year we implemented a clinic welfare • Traffic to our website continued to grow, as • We continued to deliver OH&S training campaign, one of the most significant in the discount scheme to assist animal owners did our Facebook presence with more than programs for our staff and volunteers. RSPCA’s history. experiencing financial hardship. 19,500 fans engaged on a daily basis. • Over 2,200 people generously volunteered • We continued to campaign to end jumps • 37,658 animals entered our ten shelters • Over $174,000 was raised from RSPCA their time to support the RSPCA. racing and duck shooting. Victoria continues across Victoria, a 6% decrease from last Cupcake Day in August 2009. to be one of the few states in Australia still year. • We completed infrastructure and equipment allowing these cruel sports to take place. • Million Paws Walk enjoyed record upgrades to enhance the environment for the • 53% of dogs coming into our care were attendance with over 25,000 people animals in our care. • We supported the national launch of the reunited with their owners, up from 46% in supporting the event to raise $416,178. RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme to the previous year. help consumers to make an informed and humane choice. • ’Age Does Matter’ was launched in January to encourage prospective owners to • 11,000 individuals participated in our consider adopting an adult cat. education programs. • Our Inspectors managed 14,263 • We continued to support communities complaints, with 68% of these complaints impacted by the Black Saturday bushfires related to companion animals. with $2.6 million in grants distributed to help over 13,000 native and companion animals.
6 1% 13% Expenditure 2009 /10 Animal welfare 9% Animal welfare related expenses 63% expenditure trend
Fundraising and bequest expenses 7%
7% Bushfire support and grants 7% 20 63% Retail expenses 9% 18 7% Support services 13%
Other 1% 16
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12 6% 1% 3% 19% Sources of income 2009 /10 10 $ millions 8 Fundraising (includes bushfire donations) 19%
Retail sales 11% 29% 6 Bequests 31% 11% 4 Fees for service – animals 29%
Government grants 3% 2 Investments 6% 0 Other 1% 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 31% Fiscal year
7 8 The year ahead
The leading of change and increased community engagement, to improve the lives of animals:
Implement a multifaceted strategy to address: overpopulation Improve the services we have on offer by refining existing (the need for desexing), microchipping (to increase reclaim animal behaviour programs, further developing our foster care rates), understanding of cat behavaiour (to reduce surrendering) program, expanding our veterinary services and developing and improving the value of cats as companion animals (to culturally and linguistically targeted communication material to reduce animal cruelty involving cats). increase knowledge for companion animals owners.
Krystal Morrison, Animal Attendant at RSPCA Peninsula, was one of the many carers who Expand our adoption services to improve outcomes including: Continue to develop priority animal welfare campaigns to worked to rehabilitate Gremlin and 17 other increasing Twilight Adoption hours during summer, launch a increase community awareness and engagement, and achieve miniature ponies seized by our Inspectorate. statewide senior animals program, increase promotions of legislation changes. Through a program of correct diet and exercise adoption services and trial new adoption concepts that will combined with plenty of love and attention, the meet the needs of the community. ponies regained their health. While working closely with Gremlin, Krystal was increasingly taken by his cheeky and outgoing nature. So when he became available for re-homing, Krystal couldn’t resist inviting him to live with her. Krystal’s two thoroughbred horses are amused by their new housemate and his attempts at bossing them around. Gremlin will turn two this year and continues to thrive, helped along by his huge appetite and his adoring new family.
9 President’s report
Vice-President Barbara Horn Political climate International issues The death of Barbara Horn in January 2010 was keenly felt The RSPCA was established by the community 139 years ago I remain a member of the international Board of the World by her legion of friends, admirers and supporters. I first met to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and through Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). While the national Barbara through my work with 774 ABC Melbourne where she advocacy, to ensure that the parliament regularly reviewed and animal welfare societies have similar issues to deal with as was a presenter. It was immediately obvious that Barb was a amended the law. the RSPCA in Australia, WSPA focuses its work on assisting passionate animal owner and animal welfarist. Barbara was developing countries resolve major issues. Current priorities are appointed to the RSPCA Board in May 1986 and was elected The lack of progress during the past two years on achieving the humane management of the massive stray dog problem; Vice-President in October 1989, a position she still held at the incremental improvements to the welfare of animals has proved planning strategies to mitigate the effect of natural disasters on time of her death. to be very frustrating for the RSPCA. Nationally, the federal domestic animals and wildlife, such as those seen following the government has simply taken animal welfare off the agenda. floods in Pakistan; humane slaughter techniques and strategies Barbara gave generously of her time to the RSPCA, whether The National Consultative Committee on Animal Welfare has to build capacity in small shelter societies throughout the world. she was attending or chairing Board and committee meetings, not met and the government only offers token support for the Close to home, WSPA is tackling the 450,000 stray dog and seminars, or presiding at RSPCA events. No one was ever left Animal Welfare Branch of the Department of Agriculture and the rabies problem on the island of Bali, and assisting Australia to in any doubt about Barbara’s views on any animal welfare Australian Animal Welfare Strategy. develop a formal government natural disaster relief program issues. She represented those of the Victorian community following the lessons learnt from the Victorian bushfires with commitment and vigour. Barbara, we miss your ebullient In Victoria, a similar situation exists with all animal welfare issues of 2009. laughter and infectious smile. being referred to the Premier for his decision, thus by-passing the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (AWAC) which was established to provide community advice on the welfare of Acknowledgement Governance and Board animals to the government. The members of the AWAC are all I acknowledge with gratitude and pleasure the great and highly motivated, talented professionals, yet the achievements In February, three new Board members, Marco Ciobo, ongoing support given to the RSPCA during the year by so of the committee remain negligible because the committee Suzie Ewart and Dana Hlavacek, and one Board committee many Victorians. It is this support, so willingly given, that agenda and all debate are firmly controlled by the department. member, Jenny Ross, were appointed on the recommendation has developed our RSPCA into the professional and leading Improvements to dog and wildlife management legislation hardly of the Nominations Committee. The new Board members influential animal welfare society it is today. I urge you to equates with improving animal welfare. have already made a significant contribution. Lorraine Bates consider every section of this Annual Report which will convince was elected Deputy Chair by the Board. These appointments Consequently, many issues that have been on the RSPCA you of outstanding progress. 2009/2010 has been a busy, have enhanced the professional approach of the Board agenda for many years remain unresolved: duck shooting, sometimes frantic, and thoroughly rewarding year. and I sincerely thank all of my colleagues for their continued jumps racing, puppy factories, animal hoarding, live animal dedication to, and support of, the RSPCA. exports, slaughter of non-stunned animals, shedded sheep, transport of bobby calves, tail docking of dairy cows, and Our CEO, Maria Mercurio, continues to lead a professional intensive farming of chickens, cattle, pigs and sheep, just to and competent management team, which includes many name a few. volunteers, and I congratulate her on what has been achieved over another frantically busy and at times, frustrating year. In preparation for the November State election, the RSPCA has Hugh J Wirth AM KSJ canvassed all political parties to ascertain their animal welfare Honorary President policies. It will come as no surprise that the major parties that can form the next Victorian government have no official policy commitments whatsoever. 10 11 RSPCA Directors
Dr Hugh Wirth AM KSJ Dana Jane Hlavacek Lorraine Bates James Smith BVSc, Hon DVSc (Melb) BComm (Hons), MAcc, FCA, GAICD BComm, FCA - President, RSPCA Victoria - Non Executive Director – Global Cash Management - Deputy Chairperson, RSPCA Victoria - Chair, RSPCA Victoria Audit Committee - Chair, CEO Review and Nomination Committees - Member of the Institute of Chartered - Business experience – Tourism and Customer and Budget and Finance Committee - Past President and international Board member Accountants Australia Service - Practising Chartered Accountant and World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) - Governor - Arts Centre Foundation - Inaugural Member of St. Martin’s Club business advisor - Past President, RSPCA Australia - Treasurer and Public Officer – Beacon Cove (now Champion Circle) - Director, RSPCA (Vic) Foundation Pty Ltd - Director, RSPCA (Vic) Foundation Pty Ltd Neighbourhood Association - Commenced on State Council: 19 April 2005 - Commenced on State Council: 17 April 1984 - Commenced on State Council: March 1969; - Director-Elect – Australian Friends of the Asian Vice-President 1971; President since 1972 University for Women - Commenced on Board: 19 January 2010 12 Robert Carraill OAM Dr Carole Webb Dr Onn Ben-David OAM Marco Ciobo Suzanne Ewart BAgSc, DipAgExtn, FAIAST BVSc (Hons), MACVSc (Feline Medicine) BVSc BSc, MSc BEcon, ASA - Chair, RSPCA Victoria Strategy and - Practitioner, Feline Medicine - Chair, RSPCA Victoria Animal - Management Consultant, - Principal Business Consultant – Suzanne Corporate Policy Committee - Executive Director, Cat Protection Society Welfare Policy Committee Principal - IT and financial services Ewart and Associates specialising in - Agricultural Scientist, experienced in - Commenced on State Council: - Private Veterinary Practitioner practice areas business and finance farm animal production 15 April 1997 - Commenced on State Council: - Commenced on Board: 27 January - Treasury Corporation of Victoria (TCV) - Past Board Member, Greening 18 September 1979 2010 – non-executive Director Australia (Victoria) - Benetas Limited (Anglican Aged Care - Commenced on State Council: company) – Former non-executive Director 15 March 1987 - Commenced on Board: 19 January 2010
13 CEO’s report
The past year has seen an increasing focus on improving our Our two Vet clinics also play a significant role in delivering strengthened by our own scientific seminar and has been animal welfare outcomes. Our efforts encompassed initiatives excellent welfare outcomes. Our vets are skilled and now supported by a national discussion paper and roundtable. in our shelters and clinics; work in our inspectorate and in offer additional specialist services to clinic clients. The animal We will continue to lobby the State Government to change the education; expansion of our events and reaching out to the behaviourists expanded the range of services offered to the legislation, improve its enforcement and shut these facilities down. community. We have stepped up our political activism with public and new programs included post adoption training to stronger campaigns and a louder voice for animal welfare. help ensure good long-term outcomes. These initiatives coupled We continued efforts to educate the community through the work We have also increased our efforts to improve our physical with regular seminars to address specific pet behavioural issues of our Inspectors, who try to educate rather than prosecute in the infrastructure, right across the State. Supporting this work is a are all designed to increase the success rate of our adoptions. first instance; our shelters who have the day to day contact with strong Board and a continuously improving organisation with a range of people; our publications, events, website and social staff and volunteers whose dedication and skills are second Facilities media tools and especially through our education team. to none. Adequate shelter facilities are critical to our ability to deliver Capability excellent welfare outcomes. The quality of care depends on Our hands on work being able to quarantine sick animals and prevent the spread Organisationally, progress was made in upgrading our systems with a focus again on improving our regional shelters, as well as During the course of the 2009/10 year our shelters took in of disease, keep our animals cool in summer and warm in implementing new software for our Inspectors. Our processing nearly 38,000 animals. This is a significant decrease compared the colder months, minimise stress in our animals and provide systems were improved as we continued to drive down to the past two years. We have made some progress but clearly enrichment and training so that we maximise every animal’s administrative costs. Necessary training for staff was provided not yet enough in changing attitudes and behaviours in the chances of a successful outcome. We focused on improving our including the Amsden and Wotherspoon scholarships and a community. But we have been able to improve our own statistics, regional facilities in the past year and purchased new equipment range of other development opportunities, as we continue to with dog adoption and reclaim rates increasing (from 72% for shelters across the state. enhance our skill base. in 2005 to 79% this year) and euthanasia rates decreasing Planning for our major Burwood East redevelopment continued. (from 25% in 2005 to 18.6% this year). A solution to the While we had planned to have construction underway we Finally, we had the privilege of continuing to work with and cat situation continued to elude us with numbers and rates have been delayed by planning requirements and prolonged for the communities who were ravaged by bushfires last year – remaining constant. negotiations with the owners of the surrounding land. This is a providing feed, shelter and materials and other animal welfare and wildlife aide which was still so desperately needed. But we have made inroads. We trialed new initiatives which large, complex project and we need to ensure that we have met all our internal and external requirements. We consulted widely had good short term impacts and the new year will see much I am grateful to our dedicated staff, volunteers, our members with our own staff, experts and specialist consultants and now more of this effort with a comprehensive cat welfare strategy. and supporters and the broader Victorian community for their have the specifications for a site which will deliver a range of We improved the adoption rate for cats with a promotion ongoing commitment to animal welfare, and to our President animal welfare services and provide the highest level of animal entitled ‘Age Does Matter’ which featured older cats and and Board for providing the good governance and leadership care possible. their qualities as excellent pets and participated in a national that the community expects of us. adoption campaign. We extended our twilight adoptions at our Burwood East and Peninsula shelters which created Advocating for change greater opportunities for our animals to find new homes. All of these programs had measurable success and we will use The 2009/10 year was marked by strong campaigns to this knowledge in the coming year to continue to improve the end jumps racing, duck shooting, and puppy factories and outcomes for animals in our care. to improve our adoption of companion animals. The puppy Maria Mercurio factory campaign is the most targeted, well resourced campaign Chief Executive Officer in the recent history of RSPCA Victoria. The campaign was
14 CEO’s report
Gus the welsh pony, came to the RSPCA when he was seized by our Inspectorate. Now rehabilitated, Gus spends his days working alongside members of our Education Team including long-standing and very knowledgeable volunteer, Bev Houston. Our CEO Maria Mercurio couldn’t resist the chance to have a cuddle with this beautiful boy.
15 Organisational effectiveness
RSPCA Victoria is focused on ensuring that as an organisation we operate both efficiently and effectively. We are committed to improving organisational effectiveness to ensure the maximum available funds are directed to helping animals in need.
Board development The RSPCA’s constitution requires that we have a maximum of nine and a minimum of seven Directors on our Board. From 1 July 2009, the RSPCA Victoria Board consisted of seven members. Following an extensive search and evaluation process and on advice from the Nominations Committee, the Board unanimously appointed two additional members on 19 January 2010. Another additional Board member was appointed on 27 January 2010.
New Directors were welcomed to the RSPCA by a series of induction presentations from the President of the Board, current Directors and the Executive Management team. In this process, new Board members were advised of their governance obligations as well as being introduced to the various policies we work in accordance with.
This year, an ongoing Board evaluation process was initiated. This process will analyse the Board’s function to ensure continuous improvement and will continue into the year ahead.
16 Board committees • RSPCA Peninsula received improvements to the plumbing and electrical services which were an upgrade of aging Leo Hernandez is a member of the Maintenance team Board committees are an essential part of the RSPCA’s infrastructure. This shelter faces a number of issues with aging who are so important in maintaining and improving governance structure, helping to ensure that the Board operates infrastructure and as a consequence, it will be a focus for the infrastructure of our shelters, adoption centres, effectively and efficiently. In the past year, committees have further upgrades in the coming year. provided advice and made recommendations to the Board veterinary clinics and op shops across Victoria. Based • A block of land adjacent to RSPCA Bendigo was purchased at RSPCA Burwood East, Leo is regularly involved in on many issues that included animal welfare, corporate to provide space for future development in this growing the upkeep of the barn which our education animals, governance and policy as well as finance. region. The purchase of this site was initiated and well including Lily the goat, call home. supported by a local RSPCA volunteer, illustrating the strength Throughout the year, the committees included the Strategy and Lily came to the RSPCA at just the right time to fill of the support in this region. Corporate Policy; Animal Welfare Policy; Budget and Finance; a goat vacancy in our Education Department. Audit; CEO Review and the Nominations Committees. Currently ‘in training,’ she is learning to walk on The plans for our major site development for Burwood East a lead and participates in mock classes. Lily is well were also finalised this year. Work is expected to commence suited to her new role as she loves to socialise which Risk management in late 2010, subject to final planning approval from the local was evident when she literally jumped the fence to council and successful outcomes to negotiations with Reading Earlier this year, the Board initiated a comprehensive risk join the animals in the next pen. International who own the land surrounding our site. management analysis for our organisation. This analysis involved all areas of the RSPCA and was facilitated by the risk management experts from Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu (Deloitte). System enhancements The risk management process allowed us to review our key The RSPCA Inspectorate database was migrated to new risks, understand our controls over these risks and ensure that software late last year, sharing the same platform as our any gaps in controls are addressed. This risk management shelters. This system provides enhanced reporting, mobility project is expected to be completed in late 2010. and functionality to support the critical work of our Inspectors.
Investing in animal Back-end support systems were also upgraded to reduce processing costs. These upgrades included the implementation welfare infrastructure of a new database to manage regular donations, reducing During the past year, we undertook a number of the need for manual intervention saving both staffing resources infrastructure upgrades to improve our animal welfare and funds. The RSPCA’s email and calendar software was also facilities. Some of these included: upgraded to a modern and robust system, allowing improved functionality, especially for staff and volunteers located in • A new Inspectorate office was installed in RSPCA Sale regional areas or in the field. replacing a previous off-site location. This has reduced rent costs for the region but more importantly, it has Regional shelters received upgraded access to the main significantly improved communications between the RSPCA network, enhancing both our internal and external shelter and Inspectorate in this region. communications. This upgrade will play a critical part in supporting our re-homing efforts, tracking animals and • The RSPCA Sale, Wangaratta and Castlemaine shelters improving reporting. received upgrades to their cat facilities with the installation of evaporative air-conditioning. This will provide much needed In our digital environment, in addition to upgrades to our main cooling in the warmer months. website (www.rspcavic.org), a number of other micro-sites were • Our cat adoption facilities at RSPCA Burwood East were developed to support campaigns and animal welfare initiatives. upgraded with the installation of shade cloth over the These were complimented by a Facebook page which has outdoor pens to keep the cats cool in summer. Radiant become an increasingly popular way for supporters to interact heaters were also installed to warm these pens in winter. with the RSPCA.
17 Developing our people
For RSPCA Victoria, animal welfare is always our first priority This, together with the commencement of updated emergency and achieving good outcomes is dependent on our team of evacuation plans for regional locations, assists to ensure that our professional staff and volunteers, all of whom have a strong staff are equipped with the information that they need when it commitment to improving the lives of animals. comes to potential hazards.
In the past year, the RSPCA has continued the ongoing development of the skills and knowledge of our teams. Philanthropic support Opportunities for staff development are aligned to our In 2009/10 we were once again very fortunate to have a strategic objectives and the needs identified in individual donor support our Staff Development Program. This program development plans. allows our staff to attend beneficial seminars and conferences to gain specific skills and knowledge relating to the enhancement Some of the development programs that were provided in of animal welfare. Without such a generous contribution to this 2009/10 include: program, staff attendance at such events may not have been • Leadership development for managers and possible due to financial constraints. supervisors to motivate and drive employee and organisational performance. The Wotherspoon Scholarship is designed to promote opportunities for RSPCA veterinarians to develop their skills, • Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) training with a specific aim to benefit animal welfare and contribute to including first aid, defensive driving and specific the development of shelter medicine in Australia. Andrew Lim customer service training. was the 2009 recipient of the scholarship. Andrew completed • Communications training for key spokespeople. a Distance Education Program in Behavioural Medicine through the University of Sydney, Centre for Veterinary Education. • A number of staff completed their qualification in the Certificate IV Training and Assessment. This training will help The Amsden Leadership and Management Scholarship to increase RSPCA’s ability to raise awareness, educate recognises the need for highly developed management and and influence the community on animal welfare issues, and leadership skills to ensure that staff are able to continue to facilitate skills transfer within the organisation. deliver enhanced animal welfare outcomes. In 2009, Penny Our commitment to providing a safe workplace through our Aquino, Manager Volunteer Resources, was awarded this focus on OH&S has also seen the re-design of the organisation’s scholarship and undertook Mt. Eliza’s Leadership incident and risk management reporting documentation. Development Program.
18 Volunteer contributions Executive Management - Maria Mercurio, Duncan Mackellar, Jenny Davis, Greg O’Brien, Helen Cocks The RSPCA is very fortunate to benefit from generous community support, with volunteer participation continuing to grow over the past year and with individuals volunteering their time make a significant difference to the lives of animals in need. Only with the extra hands and hearts of over 2,200 volunteers, work experience students, interns and corporate volunteers, has the RSPCA been able to achieve so much in animal welfare.
In April, we were excited to introduce our internship - Allie Jalbert, Greg Boland, Catherine Smith, Kate Breuer, Chris Thurgood, Catherine Scullin, Sally Schimleck Animal Welfare program for university students to assist in their area of interest and support the work of the RSPCA. The program was embraced by students and has provided considerable benefit to our organisation. A total of nine students have commenced since launching the program, with interest continuing to grow.
Our work experience program continued to attract both tertiary and secondary students across the state. This year we launched the work experience program online for regional shelters. This improved access to information Community Engagement - Chantelle Courtney, Sally Meakin, Penny Aquino, Fiona Atkinson, Katie Sommer, Yvonne Steiner for students, parents and teachers, with increased administrative efficiencies. There were a total of 339 work experience students engaged across the state, an increase of 71% compared to last year.
Our corporate volunteering program continued to attract considerable interest from our corporate partners with 358 people participating. We also experienced growth, welcoming four new partners. The main contributors to this year’s program were NAB and ANZ (46% and 19% of total corporate volunteering opportunities respectively). We hope this growth will continue into the year ahead.
Support Services - George Nicholson, Allison Mackin, Shane Van Houten, Marcia Nugent, Chris McIntosh
19 Engaging Victorians
Educating and engaging the community are critical aspects of the RSPCA’s work across Victoria. Only with the passionate support of the community are we able to influence legislative change and improve the lives of animals.
Amongst the many RSPCA animal welfare campaigns that have engaged the community in the past year, major focuses have been improving the welfare of cats (detailed in the `Enhancing the Five Freedoms for Animals – Shelters’ section), stopping puppy factories, the abolition of jumps racing, the banning of duck shooting and improving the welfare of farm animals.
Improving the welfare of farm animals As an organisation we are committed to improving the welfare of all animals, including those living on farms. Aligned with this strategy, we were delighted to be involved in the launch of the RSPCA Approved Farming scheme earlier this year. RSPCA approved farms ensure hens, pigs and meat chickens have the freedom to express their full range of natural behaviours. These animals are not confined in cages or sow stalls and RSPCA assessors visit and monitor farms regularly to ensure they continue to meet high animal welfare standards. Our Approved Farming scheme allows farmers who meet humane standards of production, to apply for the RSPCA Paw of Approval to display on their product. Our Paw of Approval will help consumers make an informed, humane choice that will protect the welfare of farm animals.
20 Community education This year, we were delighted that our education programs were popularity and strength, with our range of activities expanding Children like Jack Britt, who have a love of able to reach more than 11,000 individuals. These people animals, delight in our popular School Holiday to meet increasing demand. Since 2004, we have had 3,453 were actively informed and engaged in animal welfare, both Programs. Through helping to hand feed, students aged six to 18 attend our programs, with over 600 on-site at our education centre, in schools and off-site in the pet the education animals and various animal attending this year. community. A proud achievement of our education team has related activities, young children have lots of also been our animal therapy with children traumatised by fun in an interactive learning environment. Our youth focused programs linking career pathways around the Black Saturday fires (detailed in the supporting bushfire Our School Holiday Programs focus on the working with animals have been embraced by participants. responsibilities involved in owning and caring communities section). In May, 24 aspiring students attended Vet for a Day and 12 for a pet. Our two much loved guinea pigs, budding vet nurses attended First Aid for Pets. These programs Jessica and SPG, think they have a pretty While schools continue to be our primary audience, the RSPCA provided a unique opportunity to spend time alongside good job as they help to deliver RSPCA animal education team have continued to explore opportunities to professional RSPCA veterinary staff, view surgery, learn new welfare messages and get plenty of cuddles increase community engagement. We have increased our reach skills and discuss issues around good animal care and welfare. and attention in return! to members from regional, urban and non-english speaking communities, as well as farmers and primary producers. Our community education programs are an important element in the influencing of behaviours and the changing of attitudes In 2009/10, an important activity was delivering a series of to improve animal welfare. lectures at Marcus Oldham College. These lectures addressed key agricultural issues, the position of the RSPCA, the role of our Inspectorate and future industry directions for animal welfare. Living together in harmony Feedback from the college was enthusiastic and positive. An important aspect of our work in the community is providing responsible pet owners with the tools they need to live in The RSPCA Horse Road Tour once again engaged regional harmony with their pets. In the past year, our promotions have Victorian communities, targeting recreational horse owners, included raising the profile of our animal behaviour training both experienced and new. RSPCA Inspectors shared their and information sessions, encouraging owners to update pet experiences of common welfare problems and the day-to-day microchip details, holidaying with pets and how to manage needs of horses, while experienced horse woman Wrangler pets during fireworks and thunderstorms. In response to the Jayne presented passionately on ‘Horsemanship with Heart’. Black Saturday fires, we also launched an animal checklist, Improving horse welfare will continue to be a major focus in so owners could prepare their pets for emergencies. the coming year.
This year, our collaboration with Victoria University resulted in the success of a nationally recognised, co-branded Certificate II in Animal Studies qualification. This training specifically targets young people, and is delivered in such a way that allows full-time students to participate. Our pilot program ran in September and November 2009, and now three programs later, 49 students have graduated. While increasing knowledge of animal welfare, this training also introduces the youth demographic to a lifelong relationship with the RSPCA.
We are in discussion with Victoria University about other opportunities to expand our vocational education programs. The RSPCA School Holiday Program continues to grow in
21 Campaigning for change
Our campaign to ban jumps racing continued this year with Sadly, despite many years of campaigning by the RSPCA, increased pressure placed on key decision makers - Rob Hulls the Victorian State Government allowed the cruel hunting of (Minister for Racing) and members of the Racing Victoria Limited Australian ducks to continue in 2010. In response, our efforts to (RVL) Board. Independent research* suggested that more than increase awareness and to illustrate the opposition of people in 74% of the community were opposed to jumps racing, and that the community to this cruel so-called sport, became our major by allowing this to continue, RVL were not only compromising focus for this campaign. Working with the Coalition Against horse welfare but the reputation of the entire racing industry. Duck Shooting, we circulated a co-branded petition in the This research was a key focus of our campaign targeting community, to be presented to the Victorian State Government. sponsors, the Racing Minister, the RVL Board and race goers. Our goal was to gather the active support of more than Focusing on this research was key in achieving a ban in 21,000 people opposed to duck shooting, to outnumber the November 2009, when RVL announced that jumps racing group of registered duck shooters. In July, excellent community would not continue beyond 2011. Celebrations at the RSPCA support indicated that this target would be not only achieved, were sadly short lived however. Just seven weeks after their but well exceeded. announcement, RVL bowed to industry pressure and overturned the ban, allowing jumps racing to continue. Another aspect of our campaign to protect the welfare of ducks was a strategic political approach to influence key decision With the continuance of jumps into 2011, the deaths of both makers. Following an in-depth analysis to identify marginal seats Prince Vitality and Sirrocean Storm have been evidence that no in key areas across the State, politicians were contacted in an changes can be made to protect the welfare of these horses attempt to influence their party policy on duck shooting. This and that a ban is the only solution. As we await a decision pressure was then reinforced by the community as part of the about the future of jumps racing in Victoria, we have continued national RSPCA ‘Political Animal’ campaign, where supporters to rally the community and have begun preparations of strategic were invited to also exert their influence on politicians. activities focused on the 2010 Spring Racing Carnival. We hope this louder voice on the duck shooting issue will result * Independent research conducted by Footprints Market Research (2009). in a permanent ban that will protect Australian wildlife.
22 Puppy factories are mass-production, legal facilities operating purely for profit, where female dogs as young as six months old are forced to produce several litters each year, for their entire lives. These dogs are not afforded the Five Freedoms - they live a life of confinement, are deprived of human contact and often don’t receive even the most basic of veterinary care. Tragically, when these dogs are no longer able to breed, they are euthanased.
In May we launched the biggest animal welfare campaign in our history – to close puppy factories. Although initially, our focus was on puppy factories in Victoria, we were proud to take the lead for what became an Australia-wide campaign.
Our strategy was to influence all areas of the industry, from those who produce, to the unknowing retail assistants working in pet stores and ultimately members of the community who have bought, or will buy, puppies from pet shops or via online or newspaper advertising. Our campaign imagery centred around Australian puppy factories, with the campaign featured in outdoor advertising, online advertising and media editorial. Our promotions asked the community to pledge their support for our campaign at www.closepuppyfactories.org. In less than two months, 24,000 people had pledged and were openly talking about their opposition to this issue.
At the same time, we were also in discussions with the Victorian Government, requesting improved Codes of Practice to protect the welfare of animals in puppy factories.
Although community awareness about puppy factories has increased exponentially, we will continue to rally community support until these facilities are banned, not only in Victoria but across Australia.
23 Staff and volunteers at the RSPCA have been truly inspired by the people who have dedicated themselves to assisting with the bushfire recovery efforts. Volunteer wildlife carers continue their work to rehabilitate animals impacted by the fires. We are very grateful to these carers, many of whom were directly affected, especially Stella and Alan Reid who openly welcomed us onto their property ‘Wildhaven’. Stella and Alan generously shared their amazing stories of survival and loss and allowed us to support their efforts. The RSPCA salutes them for their tireless commitment to helping animals.
24 Supporting The clever and inseparable Yogi and Juno and their two siblings were born at the RSPCA when their mother, Melody, was surrendered heavily pregnant. The little family was fostered by an adoring staff member until bushfire ready for adoption. All have since found loving homes. Yogi and Juno provide enormous joy to their wonderful new family who lost their home in Kinglake communities during the bushfires.
The bushfires on 7 February 2009 will be an unforgettable • $300,000 to cover vet bills for bushfire related injuries. Bushfire Trauma Schools Program day in the history of Victoria. The loss of human life This included financial support to veterinarians who waived was devastating and tragically it was estimated that the their fees to treat animals impacted by the fires. Some of the most fragile of those affected by this trauma were loss of animal life was well over one million. Since this • Almost $1 million in financial support to purchase animal children, many of whom in addition to losing their homes and devastating day, we have been inspired by the resilience of related equipment or shelter. friends, also lost their much-needed sense of security. the communities impacted and we have been privileged to • Over $1.1 million to purchase feed for animals. Through an animal therapy program we have run in partnership continue supporting them as they rebuild their lives. • $60,000 to provide animal runs, kennels, equipment and with Empathy Education & Training since 2005, we understood In the months following the fires, many survivors moved enrichment toys for animals living with families in the four the strength of a bond between children and animals and how this to temporary accommodation while they reflected on the temporary villages. could play an important role in helping children heal. From this, we developed our Bushfire Trauma Schools Program. devastating Black Saturday fires. Over time, many of these • $34,000 to help many grieving the loss of their animals, to people started to return to rebuild their homes and their lives. once again experience the joy of animal ownership. The RSPCA Bushfire Trauma Schools Program involved weekly With their return, the RSPCA Bushfire Recovery team witnessed • Almost $70,000 to support the ongoing care of wildlife by visits to children seriously impacted by bushfires at the Wandong, the additional stresses placed on these communities. During this specialised and dedicated carers with a further $20,000 to Kinglake West and Wattle Glen Primary Schools. Over five weeks, difficult time, we provided much-needed support to the animals provide emergency feed and equipment. our team and 15 guinea pigs visited schools to allow affected that remain such an important part of these communities. children to interact with animals. Whilst learning about animal care, Thanks to the generous donations of supporters from across Following that tragic February day, we launched the RSPCA the children experienced the calm that comes from handling and the world, we were able to help over 13,000 wildlife and Bushfire Appeal to support our emergency relief efforts. spending time with relaxed, healthy companion animals. For many, companion animals affected by the bushfires to receive feed, The outpouring from the community in response was truly true calm and happiness had been missing since Black Saturday. shelter and veterinary care. An additional $500,000 will inspirational with more than $4.1 million donated. Of this be reserved to provide further grants to those in need and to More than 100 children were involved in this program, funding, $1 million was used to support our initial emergency purchase emergency equipment that will support any future with teachers and parents reporting that over 95% of children response to provide critical support to orphaned, injured and emergency relief efforts. showed an increase in signs of happiness after their guinea pig stray animals. In response to a growing need for ongoing therapy. It was truly amazing that these small animals could play support, we then distributed over $2.6 million in grants to such a significant role in helping children heal from their bushfire affected families, including: bushfire experiences.
25 Inspectorate
In 2009/10, reports of animal cruelty remained at a level At the end of July, there were 39 cases still before the courts. similar to the previous year, with 14,263 reports of cruelty The Inspectorate team issued 311 Notices to Comply, 263 received. Although we had hoped that cruelty complaints would Advisory Letters (up a staggering 32% on the previous year), decline, we were relieved that the alarming five year trend of 23 Warning Letters, 22 Warrants of Seizure and eight Search an increase in cruelty complaints (by 48% between 2005 and Warrants for evidence. 2009), did not continue. This plateau may be attributable to easing drought conditions and increased public awareness of Our Inspectorate were also involved in a significant case, our Inspector’s role in the community. working collaboratively with RSPCA NSW in a joint investigation. This case involved alleged cruelty offences by Of the 14,263 animal cruelty complaints managed by our a dog breeder who we believe travelled interstate to perform Inspectors, sadly the most frequently investigated complaints numerous acts of illegal medical procedures (de-barking). This were animals without adequate food or water. Companion investigation is ongoing with possible offences occurring in animals accounted for 68% of complaints, with an alarming New South Wales and Victoria. increase of dog and cat cruelty recorded. Pleasingly the number of complaints involving horses decreased from 2,127 in 2008/09 to 1,329 in 2009/10. We attribute this Seeking change decrease to the easing of drought conditions, feed being more A serious concern of the RSPCA Inspectorate, and one that has readily available and the success of horse cruelty prosecutions been raised with State Government, is our lack of legal power by the RSPCA sending a strong message to horse owners to stop people who cannot, or will not, provide their animals regarding responsible ownership. with adequate care. These people may not have been charged with an offence under POCTAA as they may suffer from a Animal welfare law enforcement serious intellectual disability or mental illness. Educating the community regarding animal welfare is a core The RSPCA is campaigning for legislation that would allow our element of each Inspector’s role. In many cases of reported Inspectors to make an application before a court that would cruelty, our Inspectors work to educate owners to obtain the prohibit a person from owning or caring for an animal for a best animal welfare outcome. Thankfully, in the majority of certain period of time. The specifics of the order could vary cases, this guidance is taken onboard and the welfare of the according to different situations, including variations on length animal improves. Sadly however, there are times where the of time, the type and number of animals. animal’s welfare is so compromised in the first instance, that a prosecution is the only appropriate course of action. Amongst the successful prosecutions carried out by the Inspectorate over the past year, there have been a In the past year, our Inspectorate charged 54 people with 279 number where the maximum banning order of ten years various animal cruelty offences under the Prevention of Cruelty has been applied. to Animals Act (1986), also known as POCTAA. This was an increase of 38% on the previous year.
26 Charyn Symes gains great satisfaction from her role as an RSPCA Inspector with responsibility for a region as diverse as South Yarra to the Yarra Valley. The highlights for Charyn are seeing how educating pet owners can result in an animal’s health improving and assisting in tricky cat rescues.
Enjoying Charyn’s cuddles is roly-poly faced Cooper. Cooper came to us as an Inspectorate case and after eight months growing up at our Burwood East shelter, this lovely boy found a new forever home. This big, bossy boy loves nothing more than a long sleep in his basket cuddled up to his purple elephant.
27 Banning order for repeat guard dog 2009/10 statistics cruelty offender Sadly, convictions for animal cruelty are not enough to deter some repeat offenders. This was certainly the case for the owner of a guard dog business who, over recent years, has Cruelty complaints Key statistics been prosecuted by the RSPCA three times including a case in 2009/10. On this occasion, the offender neglected to provide 2008/09 2009/10 Number of Notices to Comply 311 much-needed veterinary care to a Rottweiler cross that was kept Abattoirs 6 0 Number of Advisory Letters 263 at commercial premises in St. Albans. Aquariums 6 2 Number of Warning Letters 23 Breeders 49 6 Number of Warrants (animals) 22 After being seized by RSPCA Inspectors, the dog was taken Cats 1,572 1,926 to a vet where it was found to have dental problems that had Number of Warrants (other) 8 Deer 20 4 resulted in it being unable to eat. As a consequence of not receiving dental treatment, the dog was in very poor condition. Dogs 6,180 6,554 Complaint increases as compared to last year: Sadly, despite all our efforts for this dog he could not be Domestic pets (other) 165 215 Cats > up 23% rehomed due to his health and temperament, all of which could Emus/ostriches 8 1 Dogs > up 6% have been prevented with early intervention from the owner. Fish 73 65 Livestock > up 55% In previous cases involving animals needing to be seized from this offender, we were fortunate enough to be able to Foxes 26 109 Foxes > up 319% rehabilitate and rehome the dogs. Horses 2,127 1,329 Sale yards > up 150% Kangaroos 104 20 Transport > up 152% The owner was convicted for failing to provide veterinary Kennels 32 6 treatment, he was sentenced to one month imprisonment Koalas 5 2 Complaints by region (suspended for two years) and ordered to pay court costs. Livestock 1,593 2,472 A subsequent conviction for this offender relating to another Grampians and Sunraysia 6% Markets 37 8 Grampians and Sunraysia 8% case of guard dog cruelty then resulted in a banning order Mallee and Goldfields 6% Other 773 247 Mallee and Goldfields 8% for 10 years. Pet Shops 312 213 WangarattaWangaratta and andNorthern Northern 6% Possums 175 117 GippslandGippsland and andPeninsula Peninsula 14% 12% A shocking case of cat cruelty Poultry/birds 978 643 Western Districts 8% Western Districts 10% Tragically in 2009/10, reports of cat cruelty climbed by 23%, Riding schools 3 8 MetropolitanMetropolitan and Outer 55% 62% including an appalling case in Dandenong where the accused Rodeos 3 10 was witnessed wrapping a cat in a towel and repeatedly Sale yards 26 65 bashing the cat against a cement driveway. After the cat Seals 9 0 was surrendered to an RSPCA Inspector, it was rushed to a veterinarian for emergency care, where it was found to have Transport 23 58 a fractured skull. After intensive care from our veterinary and Traps/poisoning 116 148 Mallee & Goldfields shelter teams the cat recovered and is now enjoying a loving Wildlife parks/petting 25 34 Grampians & Sunraysia Wangaratta & new home. Wombats 9 1 Northern
Total 14,455 14,263 Gippsland & The offender was charged with beating an animal and Metropolitan Peninsula found guilty by the Magistrate. The offender was placed on Western Districts a 12-month good behaviour bond and was banned from owning animals for five years.
28 Ponies rescued and nurtured back to health Two miniature ponies in Heathcote were reported to our Inspectorate as being in poor health. Upon visiting the property, our Inspector discovered the two ponies were kept in a paddock with no natural feed and no supplementary feeding by their owner. As a result, the ponies were in very poor condition. Although our Inspector attempted to educate the owner, she failed to take action and consequently, the ponies were seized.
The offender was charged with two counts of failing to provide sufficient food to the ponies, two of failing to provide vet treatment and one of failing to comply with the RSPCA Inspector’s Notice to Comply. The offender was convicted on all five charges, fined $3,600, ordered to pay $366 in court costs and was banned from owning, or being the person in charge of any animal, for three years.
The ponies made a full recovery and have since found loving new homes after a stay at RSPCA Peninsula. Not surprisingly RSPCA Peninsula Adoptions Officer Tori Shulver was enchanted by BB’s big brown eyes and invited him to become part of her family. Sadly he came to the RSPCA as part of an Inspectorate case when his racing career was behind him. Severely malnourished, he was slowly rehabilitated to become the gorgeous boy he is today. BB is Tori’s only horse so he enjoys her undivided attention and is relishing the chance to finally take it easy. BB is a perfect example of a horse that was given a second chance after his racing career - race horses can make great pets!
29 It’s hard to imagine now but in mid 2009 Lambert was in a terrible state. Due to the abusive and neglectful treatment he was subjected to, he was seized by the Inspectorate and taken into the care of the RSPCA.
Lambert’s story touched so many at the RSPCA and in particular Liz Walker, Clinic Practice Coordinator. The patience and care provided to Lambert by Liz and the Clinic team over his ten week stay, transformed his life. He has rebuilt his trust in humans and has stolen the heart of a new family. Lambert is now part of a happy home with his adoring mum and an RSPCA adopted cat.
30 Enhancing the Five Freedoms for animals Veterinary care RSPCA veterinary clinics at Burwood East and Peninsula provide essential veterinary care to animals in our two largest shelters, while also servicing private clients. Our clinics have expanded over the past twelve months in response to an increasing community demand for veterinary services.
Over the past year, we have continued to develop and recruit Our clinics were proud to once again participate in the a team of veterinarians with specific special interests to provide state-wide ‘Who’s for Cats’ promotion, where members of a greater level of in-house veterinary care. These specialised the community were encouraged to take responsibility for services include orthopaedics, skin conditions, eye conditions neighbourhood cats that were semi-owned. These cats were and ultrasound diagnosis. desexed, microchipped and vaccinated for a significantly reduced fee of $50, with an even lower fee available for There have been an increasing number of small companion concession card holders. The number of community cats treated animals coming to our clinics, particularly rabbits and guinea directly as part of this promotion was significantly higher, over pigs, which is representative of the increasing interest in these 30 this year in comparison to 10 in 2008/09. animals as pets. This trend has required some re-thinking of how we manage an increased demand for small animal veterinary care and has identified opportunities for us to enhance our skills Animal behaviour programs in this area. Our animal behaviour and training services have continued to Burwood East Peninsula expand with additional dog training opportunities available 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 Throughout the year there has been significant investment within at RSPCA Burwood East. The expansion of these services has RSPCA desexing the clinics to upgrade our infrastructure, including establishing a included the launch of post adoption training to assist in the 3,892 3,444 1,522 1,523 operations private cat ward, installing an oxygen concentrator to eliminate transition of dogs from our shelter into their new homes. We our dependence on bottled gas supply and the purchasing of have also continued to address animal behavioural issues by RSPCA surgery 972 1,074 253 171 a new ultrasound machine and digital x-ray developing system. hosting regular information sessions for the community focused These upgrades will greatly enhance our services and the high RSPCA on a range of behavioural problems. These sessions were 789 666 399 447 level of veterinary care we provide. also supported with training classes to provide owners with consultations the knowledge and tools they need to live in harmony with Private desexing 1,736 1,857 1,051 903 Welfare initiatives their pets. operations This year we implemented a clinic welfare discount scheme These programs and information sessions are integral to Private surgery 2,016 2,311 349 377 to assist animal owners experiencing financial hardship. This the long-term strategy of reducing surrenders to shelters Private scheme has enabled many animals to receive veterinary care and increasing the prospect of successful adoptions. 14,289 14,653 6,165 7,281 consultations and is a proactive strategy to improve the welfare of animals that may otherwise suffer ongoing health issues, be surrendered Total activity 23,694 24,005 9,739 10,702 or even euthanased.
31 Enhancing the Five Freedoms for animals Shelters
This year, 37,658 animals entered our 10 shelters across Victoria, a 6% decrease from last year. This included a lower number of animals admitted over the busy Christmas period for the first time in many years. Although some of this difference may be attributed to changes of some council contracts, this improvement indicates our responsible pet ownership messages are getting through which is pleasing news. We can only hope this positive trend continues into 2010/11.
Adoptions - giving animals a Emergency animal ambulances second chance The RSPCA emergency animal ambulances received a total of 1,953 calls for assistance in the past year, resulting in the The RSPCA continually strives to improve adoption rates for rescue of 1,252 animals. Calls to our ambulances decreased animals and this year we initiated new programs, promotions compared to last year due to the loss of the Hobsons Bay and and services to help achieve more happy endings. Over 9,500 Port Phillip council contracts. puppies, dogs, kittens and cats were given a second chance, more than 250 rabbits and guinea pigs found new families and Our emergency animal ambulances are an integral part of our 23 horses found loving new homes after intensive rehabilitation. Animals rescued by the community services, working closely with our shelter, clinic and local council partners. As a percentage of total ambulance Key initiatives from the past year are detailed below. RSPCA ambulances in 2009/10 activity, dog rescues accounted for 32%, compared to 22% in • A national adoption promotion ‘Pawfect Match’ was 2008/09. The rescue of cats increased marginally this year to launched on Valentine’s Day and aimed at increasing 42%, while wildlife dropped slightly to 23%. successful adoptions through a ‘matching system’. This initiative, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, was This year our ambulance fleet was rebranded with the generous undertaken at RSPCA adoption centres across Australia. support of Nickelodeon, with the vehicles now featuring ‘Go • A promotion entitled ’Age Does Matter’ was launched in Diego Go’ the animal rescue character. This alignment is January to encourage adoptions of adult cats. Every person an excellent way of engaging a younger generation in our adopting a cat aged over four months received a free community work. cat starter pack. Overall adult cat adoptions increased by 10% compared to the same period last year. • Rabbit and guinea pig adoptions were expanded to all of our Victorian Adoption Centres and promotions Dogs - 32% Wildlife - 23% were increased. Cats - 42% Other - 3% • Twilight adoptions on Thursday evenings were continued at Burwood East and Peninsula. 32 Geoff Hall, Shelter Supervisor at RSPCA Castlemaine, has dedicated his working life to animals and is not afraid to ‘think outside the box’ when finding ways to spread the cat welfare message in his community. Geoff’s commitment and dry sense of humour have ensured the RSPCA has a loyal, hard working team of staff and volunteers at his shelter.
Sweep was surrendered to the RSPCA when he was six years old. When interviewed by adoption staff, he made it clear he did not want any competition for laps in his new home. Happily the besotted couple that adopted Sweep have made him the centre of their attention. Our Age Does Matter campaign highlighted the benefits of adopting adult cats just like Sweep.
33 Rocky and Kiki are a double act adopted from the RSPCA. RSPCA staff were looking for the perfect family who would be committed to special training for Kiki who is deaf. They were a pawfect match for their new owners who were looking for two dogs to keep each other company, Burwood & Epping Ballarat Bendigo Castlemaine Portland Peninsula Sale Wangaratta Warrnambool Total and who were prepared for this challenge. RSPCA staff and volunteers were over the moon when 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 this cheeky pair found a home. With regular advice and support from the RSPCA, they are now % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % loving members of their new family. Through obedience training, Kiki has learned sign language, she now wears a vibrating collar and has become less reliant on Rocky. Dogs admitted 7,443 6,883 2,183 2,229 2,405 2,647 371 339 586 643 3,507 3,315 157 193 701 725 681 759 18,966 17,733 Reclaimed 3,466 46.6 3,887 56.5 1,156 53 1,305 58.5 1,376 57.2 1,554 58.7 182 49 167 49.3 246 42.0 290 45.1 1,474 42 1,454 43.9 8 5.1 2 1 256 36.5 346 47.7 385 55.7 394 51.9 8,846 46.6 9,399 53 Enhancing the five freedoms for animals Adopted 1,770 23.8 1,702 24.7 597 27.3 650 29.2 574 23.9 694 26.2 111 29.9 114 33.6 164 28.0 158 24.6 936 26.7 874 26.4 97 61.8 118 61.1 184 26.2 133 18.3 158 22.9 166 21.9 4,939 26 4,609 26 Euthanased 1,390 18.7 1,170 17 396 18.1 263 11.8 358 14.9 294 11.1 47 12.7 28 8.3 170 29.0 179 27.8 1,058 30.2 966 29.1 33 21 54 28 152 21.7 191 26.3 148 21.4 152 20 3,958 20.9 3,297 18.6 Cats admitted 7,279 6,916 1,964 1,975 1,817 1,753 338 437 411 451 3,111 3,086 138 152 705 684 624 657 17,265 16,111 Reclaimed 436 6 388 5.6 72 3.7 122 6 131 7.2 131 7.5 7 2.1 15 3.4 16 3.9 12 2.5 174 5.6 193 6.2 0 0 0 0 57 8.1 35 5.1 21 3.3 23 3.5 935 5.4 919 5.7 Adopted 2,381 32.7 2,146 31 355 18.1 453 22.1 406 22.3 463 26.4 112 33.1 122 27.9 137 33.3 158 33.4 974 31.3 1,046 33.9 101 73.2 115 75.7 180 25.5 173 25.3 234 36.5 223 33.9 5,090 29.5 4,899 30.4 Euthanased 3,406 46.8 3,256 47.1 1,474 75.1 1,472 71.9 1,243 68.4 1,102 62.8 194 57.4 217 49.7 222 54.0 304 64.1 1,918 61.7 1,849 59.9 25 18.1 28 18.4 468 66.4 456 66.7 386 60.2 402 61.2 9,801 56.8 9,086 56.4 Other admissions 3,110 2,695 27 79 14 84 79 212 0 21 566 673 4 12 9 16 8 22 3,817 3,814 shelters Wildlife 2,334 75 1,436 53.3 24 88.9 19 24.1 0 0 0 0 30 38 66 31.1 0 0 7 33.3 185 32.7 198 29.4 2 50 0 0 7 77.8 1 6.2 8 100 0 0 2,590 67.9 1,727 45.3 Non-domestic 776 25 1,259 46.7 3 11.1 60 75.9 14 100 84 100 49 62 146 68.9 0 0 14 66.7 381 67.3 475 70.6 2 50 12 100 2 22.2 15 93.8 0 0 22 100 1,227 21.1 2,087 54.7 Total 17,832 16,494 4,174 4,283 4,236 4,484 788 988 997 1,115 7,184 7,074 299 357 1,415 1,425 1,313 1,438 40,048 37,658
Outcomes for animals in our care Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers has a strong commitment to providing RSPCA animals with a second chance through rehabilitation of the sick and injured, the fostering of juvenile animals and re-homing through our adoption processes.
This year 15,217 sick, injured, stray and surrendered companion animals were reunited or re-homed within communities across Victoria. Almost 82% of dogs coming into our care were either adopted, reunited with their owners or were still in our care. Compulsory microchipping has had a significant impact on the number of lost dogs being reunited with their owners, with more than 53% of dogs coming into our care reunited with their owners, up from 46% last year.
Sadly the statistics were not so positive for cats. Only 36% of cats were adopted or reunited with their owners. It is extremely disappointing that we have not experienced the same increased uptake of microchipping for cats, with many of them arriving on our door step with no form of identification. Only 6% of cats were reclaimed. A comprehensive cat welfare strategy to improve welfare outcomes is being implemented in 2010/11. 34 Burwood & Epping Ballarat Bendigo Castlemaine Portland Peninsula Sale Wangaratta Warrnambool Total
2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 2008/09 2009/10 % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % Dogs admitted 7,443 6,883 2,183 2,229 2,405 2,647 371 339 586 643 3,507 3,315 157 193 701 725 681 759 18,966 17,733 Reclaimed 3,466 46.6 3,887 56.5 1,156 53 1,305 58.5 1,376 57.2 1,554 58.7 182 49 167 49.3 246 42.0 290 45.1 1,474 42 1,454 43.9 8 5.1 2 1 256 36.5 346 47.7 385 55.7 394 51.9 8,846 46.6 9,399 53 Adopted 1,770 23.8 1,702 24.7 597 27.3 650 29.2 574 23.9 694 26.2 111 29.9 114 33.6 164 28.0 158 24.6 936 26.7 874 26.4 97 61.8 118 61.1 184 26.2 133 18.3 158 22.9 166 21.9 4,939 26 4,609 26 Euthanased 1,390 18.7 1,170 17 396 18.1 263 11.8 358 14.9 294 11.1 47 12.7 28 8.3 170 29.0 179 27.8 1,058 30.2 966 29.1 33 21 54 28 152 21.7 191 26.3 148 21.4 152 20 3,958 20.9 3,297 18.6 Cats admitted 7,279 6,916 1,964 1,975 1,817 1,753 338 437 411 451 3,111 3,086 138 152 705 684 624 657 17,265 16,111 Reclaimed 436 6 388 5.6 72 3.7 122 6 131 7.2 131 7.5 7 2.1 15 3.4 16 3.9 12 2.5 174 5.6 193 6.2 0 0 0 0 57 8.1 35 5.1 21 3.3 23 3.5 935 5.4 919 5.7 Adopted 2,381 32.7 2,146 31 355 18.1 453 22.1 406 22.3 463 26.4 112 33.1 122 27.9 137 33.3 158 33.4 974 31.3 1,046 33.9 101 73.2 115 75.7 180 25.5 173 25.3 234 36.5 223 33.9 5,090 29.5 4,899 30.4 Euthanased 3,406 46.8 3,256 47.1 1,474 75.1 1,472 71.9 1,243 68.4 1,102 62.8 194 57.4 217 49.7 222 54.0 304 64.1 1,918 61.7 1,849 59.9 25 18.1 28 18.4 468 66.4 456 66.7 386 60.2 402 61.2 9,801 56.8 9,086 56.4 Other admissions 3,110 2,695 27 79 14 84 79 212 0 21 566 673 4 12 9 16 8 22 3,817 3,814 Wildlife 2,334 75 1,436 53.3 24 88.9 19 24.1 0 0 0 0 30 38 66 31.1 0 0 7 33.3 185 32.7 198 29.4 2 50 0 0 7 77.8 1 6.2 8 100 0 0 2,590 67.9 1,727 45.3 Non-domestic 776 25 1,259 46.7 3 11.1 60 75.9 14 100 84 100 49 62 146 68.9 0 0 14 66.7 381 67.3 475 70.6 2 50 12 100 2 22.2 15 93.8 0 0 22 100 1,227 21.1 2,087 54.7 Total 17,832 16,494 4,174 4,283 4,236 4,484 788 988 997 1,115 7,184 7,074 299 357 1,415 1,425 1,313 1,438 40,048 37,658
Combined total outcomes may not equate to 100% of admissions because some animals may still be in our care, may have been transferred to other shelters or may have passed away.
Wildlife and livestock Improving our shelters Housing crisis impacting animals The number of Australian native animals entering our care The RSPCA is committed to improving our facilities to provide Despite the overall reduction in animals entering our shelters, decreased to 1,727, dropping by 33% compared to the best possible animal care. This year, we invested in we experienced a significant increase in animals being 2008/09. Last year’s record admissions of wildlife were minor upgrades to many of our regional Adoption Centres, surrendered by their owners due to moving house or being directly attributable to our work caring for animals affected by with a focus on improvements that would ensure the animals, unable to find rental accommodation that would accept pets. the Black Saturday bushfires. visitors, staff and volunteers are able to remain comfortable. Increasing housing prices and interest rates were also major This included heating and cooling systems installed in the contributing factors. RSPCA Adoption Centres experienced a significant increase cat quarantine and adoption areas at RSPCA Sale and in admissions of animals that were not companion animals or Wangaratta, shade cloth installed in a number of our dog Sadly, once many people decide to surrender, their situation wildlife, up from 1,227 to 2,087. These animals included exercise areas and the construction of several horse shelters. is at crisis point and giving up their pets seems to be the only rabbits and guinea pigs, chickens, horses, goats and livestock option. To help support people who may be at risk of facing this that were either stray or seized by our Inspectorate team. With the support of local communities, RSPCA Warrnambool, situation, earlier this year we launched a comprehensive guide Bendigo, Wangaratta and Sale received upgraded animal focused on renting with pets. This guide encourages pet owners One of our largest single Inspectorate seizures in the past year transport vehicles. Generous support of the RSPCA Wish List to consider creating a curriculum vitae for their animals, to show involved 18 abandoned mini-horses. These mini horses were also helped purchase much needed equipment for our Adoption potential landlords that they are a responsible owner. transported to our RSPCA Peninsula shelter for rehabilitation. Centres across the state. Soon after their arrival at RSPCA Peninsula, much to the delight of the staff and volunteers, the group of 18 mini horses became The planned major redevelopment of our Burwood East site and 19 with the birth of a foal, or a ‘mini mini’! All of these mini the master planning of RSPCA Peninsula will commence in the horses found loving new homes, with some re-homed to coming year. families that had suffered animal losses during the Black Saturday bushfires. 35 Community presence
In 2009/10, the Victorian community actively engaged with Digital and media presence the RSPCA in many different ways. Passion for animal welfare was demonstrated by record participation at RSPCA events, as Our reach in the community has not been limited to a well as an increased presence by the RSPCA at local community physical presence, with the digital environment opening festivals including local council partner microchipping days. up new channels and audiences. Increased use of digital During this busy year, we also conducted seminars, information communications has allowed us to educate and inspire, sessions, workplace and community group presentations, which particularly with a generation who is online savvy. allowed us to educate the community about our work and In 2009/10, traffic to our website continued to grow, engage audiences in animal welfare issues. as did our Facebook page with more than 19,500 fans recruited and engaged on a daily basis. We also began exploring animal welfare blogs as a means of Corporate commitment to animal welfare communicating our animal welfare messages. Increasingly, companies are embracing corporate social responsibility as a fundamental way of improving the sustainability The fourth series of RSPCA Animal Rescue which aired of their business, whether that is to increase brand value or nationally on the Seven network brought stories of animal help to recruit and retain quality staff. The RSPCA has a range welfare into the homes of over one million people per episode. of corporate engagement opportunities including workplace Animal Rescue has resulted in increased awareness of animal volunteering and giving programs. The number of organisations welfare issues and our work in the community. involved in supporting the RSPCA in this way has grown significantly again this year. Probono support from business is crucial to our organisational effectiveness and we received outstanding support from many Our major corporate partner, Hill’s Pet Nutrition continued companies. As an organisation with limited funds for paid their support in 2009/10 as our exclusive national pet food promotional activities, we rely heavily on support from media sponsor and the major national sponsor of our Million Paws networks to inform and educate the community. We are very Walk. Another valued partner, TressCox Lawyers, maintained grateful for the support of Mitchell Communication Group, their critical support of key events, in addition to their tireless emitch, the Herald and Weekly Times Group, The Age, Leader efforts as one of the legal firms supporting our Inspectorate Newspaper Group, Fairfax and regional newspapers, radio prosecutions. We were also delighted to welcome new and television. corporate partners supporting various RSPCA activities and animal welfare programs.
36 Rain, hail or shine, several days each week for the past two years, Ross Marchal has risen early and made his way to RSPCA Burwood East. Waiting hopefully for Ross in the shelter are many enthusiastic dogs eager to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Always happy to help with any job, Ross has tirelessly volunteered his time to provide vital exercise and human interaction to hundreds of appreciative four-legged friends.
37 Community presence
Million Paws Walk In 2010, we were once again fortunate to experience record participation and funds raised from Million Paws Walks across Victoria. A significant increase in registrations before the event and superb weather on the day meant that on Sunday 16 May, an estimated 25,000 people across the state participated in this annual event. It is estimated that over 80,000 people took part nationally, raising over $1.3 million for animals in need.
The beautiful setting of Albert Park Lake once again proved to be a popular location for Victorian participants, attracting thousands of people. The Million Paws Walk events in outer- metropolitan and regional areas also enjoyed exceptional growth and attendance with events at Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula, Sale, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Wangaratta, Warragul, Warrnambool and Wyndham experiencing a 62% growth in funds raised.
Total funds raised from the 2010 event were $416,178, including regional income, which represents a 15% increase on the previous year. Million Paws Walk was again supported by our national sponsor Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Victorian sponsors were TressCox Lawyers, Snowy Mountain Natural Spring Water, nab, Dare to Live Personal Training and Aussie Farmers Direct, with in-kind support from Parks Victoria.
Million Paws Walk could not take place without the participation of regional coordinators, volunteers, staff and the Victorian community who support this event every year.
38 World Animal Day Gala Ball RSPCA Victoria honoured World Animal Day, a global event that celebrates animals and the contribution they make to our lives, by hosting our 6th annual Gala Ball on Friday 2 October. A group of 470 guests attended the event at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, where they were treated to an evening of special entertainment, exquisite food and wine, as well as exciting live and silent auctions which attracted a great deal of interest and competition!
A total of $183,984 was raised to support our adoption services. We were sincerely grateful to everyone who made this event such a success, including the businesses that generously donated auction items, our organising committee, volunteers, staff and guests.
TressCox Lawyers was the major sponsor of the Gala Ball with supporting sponsorship from Modern Promotions and Mitsubishi Motors Australia Ltd. In-kind support was generously provided by U-bahn design, James Walshe Photography and Gorgeous Films. Santa Paws Cupcake Day for the RSPCA 26 – 28 November 2010 Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is an easy event to participate Melbourne Pet and Animal Expo in and lends itself to being a group activity with supporters encouraged to bake and sell cupcakes, and donate the 19 - 20 February 2011 proceeds to the RSPCA. The success of Cupcake Day for the RSPCA in 2009 exceeded all expectations. Compared to the Million Paws Walk previous year, registrations for the event increased by 1,390 15 May 2011 and total funds raised were $174,923, a 957% increase. Cupcake Day The Victorian community showed great enthusiasm for this event with workplaces and schools making up the largest proportion 15 August 2011 Fiona Atkinson, leader of the Events and Membership Team believes RSPCA Cupcake Day has captured the imagination of of participants. Over $1.1 million was raised nationally many new supporters because it creates a fun and easy group in 2009 and we are hopeful that we will continue to see World Animal Day Gala Ball activity. Laura Cooper supported this event as a volunteer significant growth in coming years. October 2011 intern while completing the final year of her Public Relations Cupcake Day was again generously sponsored by New Idea. degree. Ellie, the retriever’s expression says it all, what is For the latest information on RSPCA events, not to love about an RSPCA event the combines a great fundraising opportunity with a lovely cupcake! please visit www.rspcavic.org.
39 Income generation
The 2009/10 year provided a challenging financial Key outcomes for 2009/10 environment for businesses and charities alike with consumer confidence at its lowest level for 17 years. Despite the difficult • More than 25% income growth from our major events economic environment, we continued to receive strong and with record participation levels from the community. loyal support from the Victorian community. • Workplace giving donations from employees and employers grew by 12%. We again relied heavily on the generosity of individuals and • Our Animal Ambassador program (regular giving) grew corporate partners to help fund our animal welfare programs. by 47%. These committed supporters enable us to plan Animal welfare charities receive one of the lowest levels of with confidence. government support, and only 3% of RSPCA Victoria’s total operating costs is covered by the state government. • Over $1.6 million dollars was donated to our direct marketing fundraising appeals, an increase of 4.1%. The RSPCA continues to benefit from non-monetary contributions • Income from our All Creatures Sponsorship program from many businesses and individuals who offer their time and grew by more than 4%. expertise. One such partner is M&C Saatchi whose pro-bono • A $30,000 grant to support our emergency animal creative services and strategic advice over the past five years, ambulance service was received from the Hazel and have helped us to raise much-needed funds to support our work. Arthur Bruce Trust. • A $16,200 grant to purchase disinfectant spray units Community fundraising for our shelter was received from the Mary Kibble Trust (ANZ Trustees). For more than 16 years, we have been fortunate to receive monthly contributions from Ritchies IGA Supermarkets through We are also sincerely grateful for the support of The Animal their Community Benefit Program. Over this time, Ritchies, and Welfare Foundation of Australia which helped to fund our their community-spirited customers, have generously donated education services again this year. This support enabled us to more than $1.7 million to the RSPCA, which helped us to continue providing educational programs to students and the provide much-needed care to animals in need. broader community, to ensure positive animal welfare outcomes in the future. We have been inspired by the many schools, community groups and young people in our community who wanted to make a difference to animal welfare and demonstrated this commitment with fundraising and awareness activities. Young children, often still in primary school, have shown amazing initiative to raise funds to assist the RSPCA. This year, income from these junior fundraising activities has grown by 16%.
40 Retail
In 2009/10, our retail income generation activities were significantly impacted by the economic environment, with overall retail sales declining by 3%.
It has been a particularly challenging year for the Direct Retail team as income generated by outbound telephone activities declined by 14%. The economic climate had some impact on this result but overwhelmingly, it has been an increased customer resistance to telemarketing. In response to these changes in consumer behaviour, a restructure of the area will be phased in over the next 18 months. It is expected that by December 2011, we will cease outbound telemarketing and we will further shift our focus to inbound and online sales, with both of these channels experiencing sales growth.
Dedicated teams of RSPCA volunteers have been working tirelessly in our 15 op shops across the state throughout the past year. Overall income from these stores increased by 3%, with the majority of these sales raised from donated goods generously contributed by the community.
Upgrades to store layouts, and improved ranges for the pet retail product areas at RSPCA Burwood East and Peninsula contributed to a growth of 3% in retail sales.
Lasting legacies
We are very grateful for lasting legacies from our supporters who have ensured we can continue our important animal welfare work throughout Victoria. These bequests continued to fund a large percentage of our operating budget and many specific bequests have been received to upgrade our animal As a young professional who has always had a love welfare facilities. Please refer to page 44 to view individual for animals, Diana jumped at the chance to become recognition for the generous supporters. an RSPCA Animal Ambassador. Through her monthly donations, Diana and other generous souls like her Our Bequest Animal Program continues to offer people peace are part of a special group of people who make a of mind that their pets will be loved and cared for, should real difference in the lives of vulnerable animals. anything happen to their families. The program has seen Diana also joins in the fun of volunteering at events considerable growth in the past year, which resulted from such as Million Paws Walk. Diana, enjoyed the increased community awareness of the program. The number chance to have a cuddle with little Poppy the rabbit, of animals placed into permanent foster homes as part of this one of the lucky animals she has helped re-home important program, increased by an incredible 90% this year through her generous donations. and interest in becoming a foster carer increased by 68%.
41 Major donors
Protectors Companions Friends Protectors are valued major supporters who demonstrate Companions are major supporters whose Friends are major supporters of the RSPCA who make a valuable contribution to animal leadership in their giving, and play a vital part in dedication to animal welfare and ‘all creatures welfare and the wellbeing of ‘all creatures great and small’. enabling the RSPCA to continue delivering vital animal great and small’ ensure that the values of the welfare services to the community. RSPCA are upheld. Dr R Albon Ms J Hayton Mrs C and Dr B Neubecker Mr and Mrs R Austen Ms J Heazlewood Ms E Neville Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC, DBE Mr M J Anderson Mrs J S Barlow Mr S Heselwood Mrs A M O’Connor Miss B Amsden OAM Mrs R Andre Miss T J Barradell Mr C and Mrs S Hill Mrs C Park The Animal Welfare Foundation of Australia Miss S Brookes Ms C Belcher Dr H Hiscock Ms S Perkal Mr J and Mrs L Bates CSL Limited Ms J Bendall Dr K Hogan Ms S Perrett Mr C H (Bill) Beauchamp Ms J Davis Ms D L Bertalli Ms R L Holmes Ms S Polini Ms J E Boynton Mrs A Gordon Ms P Beswick Miss P M Holmes Lady Potter Mrs E Burgess Mr K Halla Mrs M R Bishop Mrs H Hopkins Mr G Rankin Miss S Burt Mrs Hallett Blue Illusion Westfield Ms J Howell Miss L Riederer Mr C and Mrs L Catlow Mr P Halstead and Ms R Hoffman Miss S M Box Dr M J Hrasky Ms M Riley Mrs E Downing Ms M V Holland Mr P R Brown Miss B E Hughes Rob Meree Foundation Dulux Group (Aust) Pty Ltd Ms B H McNicoll Ms J R Bull Mr T H Jansz Ms E M Russell Dr L Duncan Mrs B H McKinnon Dr B M Bullivant Mr I Jarman Dr N Schenk Mr T Evans Melk Pty Ltd Ms B A Cameron Dr F Judd Dr S Schofield Dr A G Firkin Ms M Mercurio Mr J E Cappadona Lady C Kater AM Ms A Seaman Mr W L Fitzherbert Miss M O’Sullivan Ms J Carter Ms E Kirby Mr A Serebva Griffith Hack Unit Trust Mr and Ms L Page Ms A Cimino Mr D J Koliopanos Mr A Shanks Mr O Happy Mrs L Richardson Mr A Cobb Ms C Lai Mr B Smith Mrs M E Henderson Ms H Schwarz Miss L Coles Mr L Lazarus Mr N Spitzer Mrs M Johnson Mrs J F Smith Mrs M T Cronin Mr D Leith Mr F R Stannus Mrs M Jones Ms V G Stevenson Ms M Cronin Ms C Lidgerwood Miss A B Stewart Mrs B A Kelly Miss S Sullivan Miss R E Culph Mrs M Lowe Mrs E Tabary-Collins Mrs J Lang Things Seasonal Dr P H Currie Miss M Mabbitt OAM Mrs A Taves Ms A Lowe Mrs J C Dahlsen Mr I Maloon The Pratt Family Foundation Mr R Muirden Mr I J Tyler Mr P Daniel Mr A D Martin Mr D Towers Ms V Newman Mr N Vink Lady Dawson Mrs M Matthews Ms P Townshend Dr M Olekalns Mr P Downer Mr J McCrindle Mrs E Vaughan Mr J G Prior Mr J Enenkel Mrs V A McGeoch Mrs P Walter Miss K Reid Mrs D Farquharson Mrs J C McHutchison Mr A Walton Ritchies Stores Pty Ltd Dr L Figgins Ms M McIver Miss J G Wellings Ryan’s IGA Miss C Filson Miss A McIver Ms G R White Mr G Shalit and Ms M Faine Ms M Frazer Ms G McNaught Drs A and C Whitehead Mr R and Mrs E Stradwick Mrs K C Genssen Mr A Miller Ms J Williams Mr M Stul Mr A G Gray Ms J Mullins Dr J Williams TP (Australia) Pty Ltd Mrs S Hains Mrs M Munro Dr G Williamson Ms S Tantau Hanlon Foundation Miss M L Murphy Ms J Wilson Mrs M Wallace Mr M Hanrahan 42 Corporate partners
Sponsor of the Million Paws Walk and the World Animal Day Gala Ball. Hill’s Pet Nutrition - national sponsor of the Million Paws Walk and the major sponsor of RSPCA animal shelters.
Customers of Ritchies Supermarkets contributed more than $176,000 this year, to support RSPCA animal welfare services.
Proud sponsors of the RSPCA Ambulance Service.
The Bendigo RSPCA Rescue Visa Credit Card contributes over $70,000 annually to support RSPCA Victoria’s adoption program.
Supporting sponsor of the World Animal Day Gala Ball.
Generous providers of pro-bono creative for RSPCA marketing campaigns and appeals.
The gentle and warm-hearted Alice was found destitute after the 2009 Victorian bushfires. With intensive care, Alice’s growth and progress was Supporting sponsor of the World Animal Sponsor of the Million Paws Walk. fortunately so rapid, that she was released back into the wild in early Day Gala Ball. June 2010, a confident, healthy and happy young survivor. The RSPCA is proud of its efforts to provide wildlife carers such as the Wildhaven Wildlife Shelter with the funds, equipment and support to assist in the RSPCA Victoria was also generously supported by the following companies: on-going care of orphaned wildlife like little wallaby joey, Alice. Tyrrell’s Wines, James Walshe Photography, Gorgeous Films, U-bahn design, Parks Victoria, Dare to Live, NAB and Aussie Farmers Direct. 43 Honorary Life Members
Honorary Life Membership is the highest recognition given by RSPCA Victoria. Awarded by the Board, Honorary Life Membership acknowledges those individuals who have made a significant contribution to RSPCA Victoria and animal welfare.
Honorary Life Membership was awarded for the first time in 2008, according to new eligibility guidelines and criteria. This new policy extended the criteria to ensure that people who previously may not have been considered for nomination, were eligible.
The successful nominees and worthy recipients for 2009 were Clive and Lynda Catlow and Lynn Buckley.
Miss Betty Amsden OAM Snr Sgt Peter Given Mrs Heather McCracken Mrs Jean Wallbridge Dr John Ayerbe Mrs Nerida Gray Mrs Barbara Meehan Dr Carole Webb Mr Peter Barber Mr A G Hall Capt Michael J Meehan Ms Shirley Westerburg Mrs H Bartholomew Mrs Barbara Halse Mr S I Miller AO LVO QPM The Hon Frank Wilkes AM Miss Laurie Batiste Mrs Edna Hambridge Mrs Helen Moore Mrs Lorna Williams Mr Doug Baudinette The Hon Vernon Hauser Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC DBE Dr Hugh Wirth AM KSJ Mr Charles (Bill) Beauchamp Ms Karen Hazel Mr Kevin O’Brien Mrs Betty Wood Dr Robert Begg Mr Garth Hodge Ms Glennys Oogjes Mrs Janet Wood Dr Onn Ben-David Mr Michael Holland Mrs Carol L J Penman Mr Graham Zetter Mr Charles Brown Ms Barbara Horn Dr Peter Penson Mrs Sally Zetter Mrs Joan Brown Mr Richard Hunter Miss Ninon Phillips Mr Peter Brown Mr Monty James Mrs Ann Pollard Honorary Life Membership Mrs Jan Buchter Dr Neville Japp Mrs Joan Quin was awarded to the following Mrs Lynn Buckley Mrs Alwynne Jona OAM Mr Brian Reid individuals who have now sadly Mrs Erica Cairns The Hon William Kaye AO QC Mrs H Ronzio passed away. Their contribution Prof Ivan Caple Mrs Marjory Kent OAM Mr Pat Salmon to animal welfare and the Mr Robert Carraill Mrs June Killian Mr Stephen Sedgman RSPCA will be remembered. Clive & Lynda Catlow Mr Keith King Mrs Lynette Sedgman Mrs Karen Cosgriff Mr Stuart Lawson Dr Michael Sheedy Miss Nan Moore Mrs Janice Crowley Mrs Rosemary Lill Mrs D Sipavicius Mrs E Paxton Mr Rod Curtis Mrs Phylis Lowe Mr F Smith Ms Barbara Horn Miss Barbara Dart Miss Hazel Luke Mrs Dianne Smith Mrs Mirriam Quick Mr Peter Dunk Dr Barbara Maddern-Wellington Mr James T Smith B. Comm FEA Mr Michael Schildberger Mr David Elsum AM Mrs Ursula Manning Prof Virginia P Studdert
44 Bequests & Trusts
Bequests Trusts Airlie Isobel Baillie Helen Fleurette Finnie (Fleur Finni) Magda Somogyi ANZ Trustees Foundation Albert Arthur Robert Bolam Helen Margaret Holmes Margery Isabel Pierce Aon Charitable Foundation Amelia Maude Gillespie Helga Christa Roth Maria Agatha Pauw Arther Ewdwin and Edith Barry Estate Ann Birkett Horst Karl Fritz & Erika Irene Ursula Wabnik Martin Leonard Wray Baker Foundation Anna Maria Francisca Knox Iola Alice Barnes Mary Ann Janet Atkins Barnes Bequest Audrey Lois MacDonald Irene Elizabeth Marshall Mary Janet Victoria Stewart Bruce McDonald Charitable Trust Audrey Patricia Browne Irene Kozica Mary Louise Lowes Donald Dennett James Walters Beatrice Elizabeth Gordon Eldridge Ivy May Clark Mary Margaret Oakley Elizabeth McCartney Estate Bernard Charles Patrick Hodgson J L Thomas Mary Margarita Hughes Elsie May Atherton Estate Bertha Horvath Janice Patricia Holmes Mary Walker Florence Aileen Anderson Charitable Trust Beryl Blight Jean Coats Reid Maysie Meredith Frederick Inman Trust Beryl Emily Daniel Jean Doris Green Melanie Schropp Geoffrey Ian Berry Estate (The Therapon Beryl Merle Carroll Jean Elizabeth Dudley Myra Clair Bowman Foundation) Beryl Rose Mays Jean Mavis Massey Nancy Charlotte Bartlett Helen Fookes Trust Betty Rogers Jessie Adelaide Hill Nigel James Chanter J M Patterson Estate Carolyn Elizabeth Rawlins Jill Inez Blackwell Nola Rubeena Curran Jean Mary Greenlees Trust Catharine Mary Hann Joan Elwyn Medson Norma Stella Westbrook John Frank Aiken Estate Celeste Davidson Joan Helen Feeley Norman Thomas Marshall John Murphy Charitable Trust Cheryl Kaye Clara Janetzki Joan Leah Kerr Olive Benwell Joseph Norman Mason Trust Claire Annette Maher Joan Lillian Blundell Patricia Mary Wilkie Josie Patterson Trust Cynthia Isobel Muncey Joan Mary O’Mara Patricia Smith Joyce Adelaide Healey Trust Daintrie Hallett Johanna Duma Patrick Sullivan Staples Katrina May Russell Estate David Stuart Lawson John Anthony West Lau Patti Forbes Lloyd Keila Hinde Charitable Trust Desmond Robert Gibbs John Arthur Wilding Philip Maxwell Beck Keith and Sylvia McLarenTrust Donald Frank Rider John Geoffrey Frederick Schollenberger Phyllis Jessie Laidlaw Kenneth and Waverly Harris Trust Dorothy Jane Fone John Henry Charles Jarrett Robert Derek Greenfield Kevin Stewart Cowell Trust Dorothy May Parker John Keith Betheras Robert Henderson Stewart Leslie and Hedi Basch Charitable Trust Edith Winifred Warren John Lindsay Pierce Ronald Bruce Hetherton Leslie and Helen Crawford Fund Edna May Veronica McKenna John Robert Joseph Lees Ronald Peter Sweeney Lola Poynton Memorial Fund Eileen Annie Corke Josephine Whitton Ruth Beverley Walshe Marjorie Hayes & Olivia Cock Memorial ‘You can call me Teddy Maradona. My silky skills with ping- Eleanor Pierce Harding Joy Vinicombe Sandra Sue Wussack Mary Evelyn Bowley Estate pong balls are beyond compare.’ If he isn’t practising his Ellen Bokor Joyce Moya Morton Stanley George Durant Mary Gray Trust Elsie Agnes LeClerc Andersen June Caroline Stoessiger Stanley George Skinner Patricia McIntyre Foundation ball skills, Teddy is chasing string or perched up high – Emily Theresa Greftegreff June Maira Victor Lett Stella Thomson Peter Isaacson Foundation either on the roof or the top of his scratching post. Ena Jamieson Katye Greene Sybil Craig Ruth Fagg Foundation Teddy’s owner had him registered on the RSPCA Bequest Ene Gwenda Quirk Kenneth McDonald Martin Sylvia Ruth Hodge Sarah Josephine Logue Memorial Fund Animal Program. Teddy joined his foster carer in 2008 and Enid Valerie Dawling Lee Mei Nooi (Mary Ho) Thelma Joan Densley Spencer Investments Eric Wilfred Holt Leslie James Marr Thomas Wade Thelma May Bradbury Estate now lives a happy life in a retirement village. Eryl Pamela Villeneuve-Smith Leslie Olive Feather Valda Irene Keil Thelma Silver Trust ‘We are a perfect match. My owner loves to rub my tummy Frank Charles Samways Lilian Isobel Gordon Valora May Walke William Barr Trust endlessly and I am more than happy to entertain everyone George Edward Perry Lindsay Harvey Poore Waldemar Lensky here at the village, by showing off my magnificent tail in its Gottliebe Salficky Lloyd Rankin Deans Winifred Millie Slade upright position all day.’ Grace Helen Middleton Lorraine Watson Yasuko Hiraoka Myer Harold John Casey Lucy Rafferty Yvonne Josephine Rosemary Knight Yvonne Mary Hatton 45 Glenys Marriott knew the timing was right to act on her interest in volunteering with the RSPCA when the Education team expanded their ‘family’ to include rats. As the resident rat expert, Glenys is often found with one of her favourites snuggled up on her shoulder while she works. During her five years with the RSPCA as both a volunteer and paid staff member, Glenys has provided love and care to all of our Education animals, helping with our School Holiday Programs and enthusiastically supporting many other projects.
Glenys’ face lights up when she talks about long standing resident, Lucy the Goose. Lucy is the self appointed ‘head of security’ for the barn, alerting everyone to any visitors with loud and persistent honking. When not keeping an eye on ‘her’ barn, Lucy enjoys spending her spare time hanging out in the paddock with her close friends, the ponies.
46
Financial report
48 Directors’ Report 51 Auditor’s Independence Declaration 51 Independent Auditor’s Report 51 Directors’ Declaration 52 Statement of Comprehensive Income 53 Statement of Financial Position 54 Statement of Changes in Equity 56 Statement of Cash Flows 57 Notes to the financial statements
47 The Directors of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) (‘RSPCA’) present the following annual financial report of the Company for the financial year ended 30 June 2010. In order to comply with the provisions of the Corporations Act 2001, the Directors’ report as follows:
Information about the Directors The names and particulars of the Directors of the company during or since the end of the financial year are:
Names Qualifications Occupation
Dr Hugh J Wirth AM KS J BVSc, Hon DVSc (Melb) Retired Veterinary Practitioner Mr Robert Carraill OAM BAgSc, DipAgExtn, FAIAST Retired Agricultural Scientist Dr Onn Ben-David OAM BVSc Veterinary Practitioner Dr Carole Webb BVSc (Hons), MACVSc (Feline Medicine) Veterinary Practitioner Mrs Lorraine Bates - Business Experience – Tourism and Customer Service Ms Barbara Horn - Published Author and former ABC Radio Presenter Mr James Smith BComm, FCA Practicing Chartered Accountant The Hon. John D Phillips LLB (Hons) Retired Supreme Court Judge Ms Suzanne Ewart BEcon, ASA Principal Business Consultant Ms Dana Hlavacek BComm (Hons), MAcc, FCA, GAICD Non Executive Director Mr Marco Ciobo BSc, MSc Management Consultant
The above named Directors held office during the whole of the financial year and since the end of the financial year except for: • Ms Barbara Horn - deceased 12 January 2010 • The Hon. John D Phillips - appointed 25 August 2009, resigned 27 January 2010 • Ms Suzanne Ewart - appointed 19 January 2010 • Ms Dana Hlavacek - appointed 19 January 2010 • Mr Marco Ciobo - appointed 27 January 2010
The names and qualifications of the Secretaries of the Company during the year or since the end of the financial year are:
Names Qualifications Mr Duncan MacKellar BSc, LLB Mr Greg O’Brien BBus(Acc), CPA
48 Directors’ meetings The following table sets out the number of Directors’ meetings held during the financial year and the number of meetings attended by each Director. *Two extraordinary meetings were held in January 2010 to fill Board vacancies.
Board of Directors Extraordinary * Audit Committee CEO Review Committee Meetings Eligible Meetings Eligible Meetings Eligible Meetings Eligible Directors attended to attend attended to attend attended to attend attended to attend Dr Hugh J Wirth AM KSJ 11 11 2 2 - - 1 1 Mr Robert Carraill OAM 9 11 2 2 2 2 - 1 Dr Onn Ben-David OAM 9 11 2 2 - - - - Dr Carole Webb 10 11 2 2 1 2 - - Mrs Lorraine Bates 10 11 2 2 - - 1 1 Ms Barbara Horn 1 6 ------Mr James Smith 10 11 2 2 2 2 - - The Hon. John D Phillips 4 4 1 2 - - - - Ms Suzanne Ewart 5 5 1 1 - - - - Ms Dana Hlavacek 5 5 1 1 - - 1 1 Mr Marco Ciobo 4 5 ------
Strategy and Corporate Animal Welfare Budget and Finance Nominations Committee Policy Committee Committee Committee Meetings Eligible to Meetings Eligible to Meetings Eligible to Meetings Eligible to Directors attended attend attended attend attended attend attended attend Dr Hugh J Wirth AM KSJ 2 2 8 9 8 9 4 4 Mr Robert Carraill OAM - - 5 9 5 9 - - Dr Onn Ben-David OAM - - 8 9 9 9 3 4 Dr Carole Webb 1 1 - - 8 9 - - Mrs Lorraine Bates - - 7 9 7 9 2 2 Ms Barbara Horn - 2 - 4 - - - - Mr James Smith ------4 4 The Hon. John D Phillips - - 4 4 - - - - Ms Suzanne Ewart - - 4 4 - - 2 2 Ms Dana Hlavacek ------2 2 Mr Marco Ciobo ------
49 Principal activities, objectives and Changes in state of affairs Proceedings on behalf of company performance There was no significant change in the state of affairs of the No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on The strategy of the organisation is summed up in the principal consolidated entity during the financial year. behalf of the Company or intervene in any proceedings to which activities undertaken during the year which include the refuge and the Company is party for the purpose of taking responsibility on care of animals, adoption services, enforcement of the Prevention Subsequent events behalf of the Company for all or any part of those proceedings. of Cruelty to Animals Act by RSPCA Inspectors, education The Company was not a party to any such proceedings during the and campaigning to improve animal welfare awareness and There has not been any matter or circumstance occurring subsequent financial year. engagement. Please refer to the respective sections of the annual to the end of the financial year that has significantly affected, or report for detailed information on the operations and achievements may significantly affect, the operations of the consolidated entity, the Auditor’s independence declaration of the RSPCA throughout the year. results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the consolidated entity in future financial years. The Auditor’s Independence Declaration is included on page 51 of the Concise Report. Details of membership Future developments The RSPCA is a public company, limited by guarantee, incorporated Signed in accordance with the resolution of the directors made and operating in Victoria, Australia. The guarantee is $10 per Disclosure of information regarding likely developments in the pursuant to s.298(2) of the Corporations Act 2001. member and at 30 June 2010 there were 1,670 members (2009: operations of the consolidated entity in future financial years and the 1,727 members). expected results of those operations is likely to result in unreasonable On behalf of the Directors prejudice to the consolidated entity. Accordingly, this information has not been disclosed in this report. Review of operations The RSPCA achieved a modest surplus result for the 2009/10 Environmental regulation financial year with Net Assets growing by $274,816 (2009: H J Wirth AM KSJ J T Smith $14,889,318). The RSPCA earned total income amounting to The consolidated entity’s operations are not regulated by Director Director $30,766,251 (2009: $43,764,740) with the reduction from prior any significant environmental regulation under a law of the years mainly due to bequests for the year of $9,390,741 against Commonwealth or of a State or Territory. 21 September 2010, Melbourne the prior year of $19,347,489 and funds raised from the Bushfire Appeal equalling $61,373 (2009: $4,107,462). Indemnifying officer or auditor Total expenditure for the year of $30,491,435 (2009: During the financial year, the Company paid a premium in respect of $28,875,422) has risen slightly. Expenses relating to the a contract insuring the Directors of the Company (as named above), Bushfire Appeal increased significantly in 2009/10 amounting the Company Secretaries, and all Executive Officers of the company to $2,012,349 (2009: $1,221,668) as grants were paid out and of any related body corporate against a liability incurred as to assist victims of the bushfires. A greater focus on education such a Director, Secretary or Executive Officer to the extent permitted combined with developing and implementing animal welfare by the Corporations Act 2001. The contract of insurance prohibits campaigns has also been a major contributor to higher expenses disclosure of the nature of the liability and the amount of for the year. the premium.
The net value of the RSPCA Foundation increased by $242,607 The Company has not otherwise, during or since the financial for the year compared to a loss of $1,735,472 for the 2008/09 year, except to the extent permitted by law, indemnified or agreed year. This result reflected the more consistent nature of the Australian to indemnify an officer or auditor of the company or of any related equity market. body corporate against a liability incurred as such an officer or auditor.
50 Independent Auditor’s Report to the These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion whether, in all material respects, the concise financial report, including the Members of The Royal Society for the discussion and analysis, complies with Accounting Standard AASB Board of Directors Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) 1039 Concise Financial Reports. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) The accompanying concise financial report of The Royal Society We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and 3 Burwood Highway for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) comprises the appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. BURWOOD EAST, VIC 3151 statement of financial position as at 30 June 2010, the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and Auditor’s Independence Declaration statement of cash flows for the year then ended and related notes, In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence 21 September 2010 derived from the audited financial report of The Royal Society for the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) for the year ended 30 June Dear Board Members, 2010 and the discussion and analysis as set out on pages 52 to Auditor’s Opinion 57. The concise financial report does not contain all the disclosures The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) In our opinion, the concise financial report, including the discussion required by the Australian Accounting Standards. and analysis of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to In accordance with section 307C of the Corporations Act 2001, I Animals (Victoria) for the year ended 30 June 2010 complies with Directors’ Responsibility for the Concise Financial Report am pleased to provide the following declaration of independence Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports. to the directors of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to The Directors are responsible for the preparation and presentation of Animals (Victoria). the concise financial report in accordance with Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports and the Corporations Act As lead audit partner for the audit of the financial statements of The 2001. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) for internal control relevant to the preparation of the concise financial the financial year ended 30 June 2010, I declare that to the best of report; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of: and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the Isabelle Lefevre circumstances. Partner - Chartered Accountants (i) the auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 21 September 2010, Melbourne 2001 in relation to the audit; and Auditor’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the concise financial Directors’ Declaration (ii) any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the report based on our audit. We have conducted an independent audit. audit, in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards, of the The directors declare that: financial report of The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty (a) in the directors’ opinion, the attached financial statements and Yours sincerely to Animals (Victoria) for the year ended 30 June 2010. Our notes thereto comply with Accounting Standard AASB 1039 auditor’s report on the financial report for the year was signed on Concise Financial Reports; and 21 September 2010 and was not subject to any modification. The (b) the attached financial statements and notes thereto have been Australian Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant derived from the full financial report of the company. ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the Signed in accordance with a resolution of the directors. financial report for the year is free from material misstatement. On behalf of the Directors DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU Our procedures in respect of the concise financial report included Isabelle Lefevre testing that the information in the concise financial report is derived Partner - Chartered Accountants from, and is consistent with, the financial report for the year, and examination on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts, H J Wirth AM KSJ J T Smith discussion and analysis, and other disclosures which were not Director Director directly derived from the financial report for the year. 21 September 2010, Melbourne
51 RSPCA (Victoria) & Foundation RSPCA (Victoria) Discussion and analysis of the consolidated
2010 $ 2009 $ 2010 $ 2009 $ Statement of Comprehensive Income Income The overall result for RSPCA during 2009/10 was a modest surplus Fees for service - animals 8,893,164 8,798,646 8,893,164 8,798,646 of $274,816 including income and expenses related to the Bushfire Bequests 9,390,741 19,347,489 9,390,741 19,347,489 Appeal. The operational surplus excluding Bushfire Appeal income Fundraising 5,607,893 5,936,461 5,607,893 5,936,461 and expenses was $2,225,792. Retail sales 3,251,425 3,277,587 3,251,425 3,277,587 RSPCA income generation during the past financial year reduced Interest* 919,093 1,417,262 910,529 1,398,876 by $12,998,489 compared to 2008/09. This was primarily due Grant from RSPCA Foundation - - 378,933 422,238 to a reduction in bequest income of $9,956,748 following two Government grants 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 extraordinary years for bequest income in 2008/09 ($19,347,489) Bushfire donations** 61,373 4,107,462 61,373 4,107,462 and 2007/08 ($13,349,946). Income from the RSPCA Bushfire Education and rental income 272,997 173,093 256,542 161,715 Appeal conducted in 2008/09 following the devastating Black Saturday fires decreased by $4,046,089. Net gains/(losses) on trading portfolio 497,955 (1,606,948) 271,803 161,303 Membership subscriptions 65,087 70,325 65,087 70,325 Operational revenues from activities other than bequests or the RSPCA Dividends and franking credits 794,960 600,681 390,147 144,390 Bushfire Appeal increased $1,004,348 year-on-year assisted by Profit on disposal of non-current assets 11,563 642,682 11,563 642,682 gains in investment income following the recovery of equity markets and rising interest rates as well as improving performance within TOTAL INCOME 30,766,251 43,764,740 30,489,200 45,469,174 ongoing fundraising activities. The generous support of the Victorian Expenditure community was again evident in these results. Interest income for the Animal welfare related expenses (17,891,082) (17,433,008) (17,891,082) (17,433,008) year reduced after funds on deposit were used to repay a bank facility required to fund site redevelopment. Education, campaigns and communication (1,214,827) (591,933) (1,214,827) (591,933)
Fundraising and bequest expenses (2,282,223) (2,477,101) (2,282,223) (2,477,101) Overall expenditure for the RSPCA increased by $1,616,013 during Retail expenses including cost of sales (2,892,729) (2,881,090) (2,892,729) (2,881,090) 2009/10 compared with 2008/09. This additional expenditure Support services (3,868,633) (3,665,948) (3,834,189) (3,634,910) included: • Additional distributions from the Bushfire Appeal of $790,681 Taxes and insurance (262,304) (246,075) (262,304) (246,075) following a full year of distributions from the fund (previously 5 Bushfire support and grants** (2,012,349) (1,221,668) (2,012,349) (1,221,668) months worth of distributions in 2008/09). Drought Animal Aid appeal costs - (1,000) - (1,000) • An increase in animal welfare expenditure of $458,074 due to Finance costs (67,288) (357,599) (67,288) (357,599) increasing demand on services and inflationary effect on costs. • An additional investment in education and campaigns of TOTAL EXPENDITURE (30,491,435) (28,875,422) (30,456,991) (28,844,384) $622,894 driven by an increase in campaign activity during NET SURPLUS 274,816 32,209 14,889,318 16,624,790 the year. • A reduction in finance costs for the year of $290,311 due to Other comprehensive income - - - - improved cash flow performance and the repayment of the bank TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 274,816 14,889,318 32,209 16,624,790 facility used to fund site redevelopment.
* $62,903 of interest income relates to interest earned on the RSPCA Bushfire Appeal receipts. All interest earned from the Bushfire Appeal will be directed The underlying trend is expenses are increasing as demand for to bushfire relief. services continues to grow. ** All funds raised under the RSPCA Bushfire Appeal will be directed to support bushfire affected animals. At reporting date $3,234,017 of these funds had been expended and an additional $139,000 has been committed.
52 RSPCA (Victoria) & Foundation RSPCA (Victoria) Discussion and analysis of the consolidated Statement of Financial 2010 $ 2009 $ 2010 $ 2009 $ Position Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 3,189,199 10,175,762 2,916,081 9,523,440 The most significant impact on the Statement of Financial Position during 2009/10 was the repayment of a bank facility used to Trade and other receivables 437,344 4,526,478 1,008,222 4,830,357 fund site redevelopment works following cash receipts from the Inventories 659,405 556,914 659,405 556,914 completion of a sale of land contract related to the Johnson Bequest. This contract was completed a year ahead of time. This transaction Other financial assets 32,327,807 25,001,760 25,425,099 18,987,862 resulted in a significant reduction in Current Assets - Trade and Other Other assets 533,065 598,727 533,065 598,727 Receivables combined with Non-Current Assets – Trade and Other Receivables as well as an offsetting reduction in Current Liabilities – Total current assets 37,146,820 40,859,641 30,541,872 34,497,300 Borrowings. Non-current assets Additional changes to the financial position of the RSPCA included Trade and other receivables - 954,654 - 954,654 the completion of works at RSPCA Bendigo and the capitalisation of Property, plant and equipment 27,983,619 25,642,482 27,983,619 25,642,482 motor vehicles under finance leases. These vehicles were previously leased under operating leases and the change resulted in an Total non-current assets 27,983,619 26,597,136 27,983,619 26,597,136 increase in Assets and Current and Non-Current Borrowings on the Total assets 65,130,439 67,456,777 58,525,491 61,094,436 Statement of Financial Position. Current liabilities Current Assets - Other Financial Assets include funds received from 1,300,004 1,300,004 Trade and other payables 958,387 958,387 bequests specifically for the purpose of Site Redevelopment at Borrowings 2,071,680 5,808,211 2,071,680 5,808,211 RSPCA Burwood East. At balance date these specific purpose funds totalled $10,939,311. Provisions 1,828,539 1,678,999 1,828,539 1,678,999 Total current liabilities 5,200,223 8,445,597 5,200,223 8,445,597 Non-current liabilities Borrowings 703,812 158,525 703,812 158,525 Provisions 266,160 167,227 266,160 167,227 Total non-current liabilities 969,972 325,752 969,972 325,752 Total liabilities 6,170,195 8,771,349 6,170,195 8,771,349 Net assets 58,960,244 58,685,428 52,355,296 52,323,087
Equity Accumulated funds 58,960,244 58,685,428 52,355,296 52,323,087
Total equity 58,960,244 58,685,428 52,355,296 52,323,087
53 RSPCA (Victoria) & Foundation Accumulated funds $ Total $
Balance at 1 July 2008 43,796,110 43,796,110
Surplus for the year 14,889,318 14,889,318
Total comprehensive income for the year 14,889,318 14,889,318
Balance at 30 June 2009 58,685,428 58,685,428
Surplus for the year 274,816 274,816
Total comprehensive income for the year 274,816 274,816
Balance at 30 June 2010 58,960,244 58,960,244
RSPCA (Victoria) Accumulated funds $ Total $
Balance at 1 July 2008 35,698,297 35,698,297
Surplus for the year 16,624,790 16,624,790
Total comprehensive income for the year 16,624,790 16,624,790
Balance at 30 June 2009 52,323,087 52,323,087
Surplus for the year 32,209 32,209
Total comprehensive income for the year 32,209 32,209
Balance at 30 June 2010 52,355,296 52,355,296
Discussion and analysis of the consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity There were no significant changes to the equity position of the RSPCA during 2009/10. The composition of the components of equity did not change nor were there any changes in the capital structure of the organisation.
54 Cleo and Jackie are an inseparable pair from the RSPCA Education team. Sadly, as younger sheep, both Cleo and Jackie were abandoned by their owners. Our Inspectors knew from the moment they rescued Cleo and Jackie that their friendly natures would make them perfect ambassadors for the RSPCA. These days, this duo love nothing more than being hand-fed by children visiting the RSPCA barn!
55 Discussion and analysis of the consolidated RSPCA (Victoria) & Foundation RSPCA (Victoria) Statement of Cash Flows 2010 $ 2009 $ 2010 $ 2009 $ Cash flows from operating activities Cash flow from operating activities reduced significantly in 2009/10 from 2008/09. Principal factors in this reduction Receipts from customers and others 19,022,955 24,849,998 18,739,501 24,837,481 included: Bequests received 7,981,529 14,353,416 7,981,529 13,791,050 • A large reduction in cash received from bequests, although bequest cash flow was still higher than the long term average; Distribution/grants from RSPCA Foundation - - 378,933 422,238 • A reduction in funds received from the RSPCA Bushfire Appeal Payments to suppliers and employees (28,851,326) (28,708,455) (28,816,882) (28,518,521) as the appeal closed, Dividends received 794,960 568,852 390,147 110,910 • A reduction in interest revenue and interest expense as funds on deposit were used to pay out a bank facility used in site Interest received 873,747 983,194 865,183 964,808 redevelopment. Interest and other costs of finance paid (67,288) (357,599) (67,288) (357,599) Cash flow from investing and financing activities was primarily Net cash (used in)/generated by operating activities (245,423) 11,689,406 (528,877) 11,250,367 impacted by the receipt of funds from the sale of property at Doreen. This transaction was a completion of the sale of land received under Cash flows from investing activities the Johnson estate. The final receipt of funds for this property was Proceeds from disposal of land 5,200,000 4,000,000 5,200,000 4,000,000 received one year earlier than anticipated. Part of the funds received was used to extinguish the bank facility mentioned in the previous Proceeds from disposal of property, plant & equipment 28,897 809,419 28,897 809,419 paragraph. Payments for property, plant & equipment (2,116,759) (2,549,495) (2,116,759) (2,549,495) The mortgage on the RSPCA Op Shop at Castlemaine was paid out Proceeds from sale of investments 734,235 8,700 338,608 8,700 during the year leaving the RSPCA with no debt on property and Payments for investments (1,244,288) (179,771) (186,003) (97,327) an additional block of land adjacent to the Bendigo Shelter was Purchase of term deposits (periods greater than three months) (4,908,827) (13,554,928) (4,908,827) (13,554,928) purchased to allow future growth at RSPCA Bendigo.
Net cash used in investing activities (2,306,742) (11,466,075) (1,644,084) (11,383,631) In 2009/10 the RSPCA elected to finance its vehicle fleet under new finance lease arrangements, supplanting the previous Cash flows from financing activities arrangements for operating leases. This change, designed to reduce the cost of operating the fleet, resulted in the recognition of vehicles Bank bill facility repayments (4,160,883) (3,400,000) (4,160,883) (3,400,000) as assets and the leases as liabilities with the reclassification of Business loan repayment (114,000) - (114,000) - vehicle finance lease repayments from cash flow from operating Finance lease repayments (250,063) (2,425) (250,063) (2,425) activities to cash flow from financing activities. Net cash used in financing activities (4,524,946) (3,402,425) (4,524,946) (3,402,425)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (7,077,111) (3,179,094) (6,697,907) (3,535,689) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 8,541,933 11,721,027 7,889,611 11,425,300
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 1,464,822 8,541,933 1,191,704 7,889,611
56 1. Basis of preparation The directors have elected under s.334 of the Corporations Act 2001 to apply AASB 1053 The concise financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and Application of Tiers of Australian Accounting Standards and AASB 2010-2 Amendments to Accounting Standard AASB 1039 Concise Financial Reports. The concise financial statements are an extract Australian Accounting Standards arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements to implement from the full financial statements. The concise financial statements and specific disclosures included in the concise its revised differential reporting regime in advance of their effective dates. The Standards are financial statements have been derived from the full financial statements of the RSPCA. not required to be applied until annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2013. All amounts are presented in Australian dollars. The directors have also elected under s.341(1) of the Corporations Act 2001 to apply ASIC 2. Adoption of new and revised Accounting Standards Class Order [CO 10/654] Inclusion of parent entity financial statement in the financial reports. 2.1 Standards and Interpretations not affecting amounts reported in the current period (and/or prior periods) The following new and revised Standards and Interpretations have been adopted in the current period and have 3. Approval of financial statements not affected the amounts reported in these financial statements. The financial statements were approved by the board of directors and authorised for issue on 21 September 2010. 2.2 Standards and Interpretations in issue not yet adopted 4. Events after the reporting period Standards not affecting presentation and disclosure There are no significant events subsequent to reporting date up to the date at which the financial statements were issued. AASB 101 Presentation of Financial AASB 101(September 2007) has Statements (as revised in September 2007), introduced terminology changes (including AASB 2007-8 Amendments to Australian revised titles for the financial statements) Accounting Standards arising from and changes in the format and content of AASB 101 and AASB 2007-10 Further the financial statements. Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 101.
At the date of authorisation of the financial statements, the Standards and Interpretations listed below were in issue but not yet effective. Only standards relevant to RSPCA have been listed below.
2.3 Early adoption of Accounting Standards
Effective for annual Expected to be Standard/Interpretation reporting periods initially applied in the beginning on or after financial year ending
AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures (revised 1 January 2011 30 June 2012 December 2009), AASB 2009-12 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards.
AASB 9 Financial Instruments, AASB 2009-11 1 January 2013 30 June 2014 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 9.
57 Early this year, RSPCA Inspectors arrived at a run down suburban factory following a cruelty complaint. Two young Kelpies, both extremely emaciated and neglected had been abandoned in the dark filthy factory and left to fend for themselves. Their ribs, spine and pelvic bones were clearly visible and as a result, both dogs were in serious need of veterinary treatment and care. Inspectors rushed the dogs to the RSPCA and both were found to be severely dehydrated, suffering from hair loss and badly overgrown nails. However after two months of intensive care and treatment, Sarah and Germaine have now been adopted and are enjoying their wonderful new lives. Thanks to generous donations and community support, they have been given a second chance and have left their old lives behind.
58 RSPCA Victoria
Burwood East 3 Burwood Highway, Burwood East 3151 P 03 9224 2222
Ballarat 115 Gillies Street South, Ballarat 3350 P 03 5334 2075
Bendigo 20 Pipers Lane, Bendigo East 3550 On 12 January 2010, we were deeply P 03 5441 2209 saddened at the passing of Barbara Horn, Castlemaine a truly inspirational and caring woman 24 Langslow Street, Castlemaine 3450 who was such an integral part of our P 03 5472 5277 organisation. Words cannot adequately express the Epping gratitude we have for the wonderful 355 O’Hearns Road, Epping 3076 contribution Barbara has made to RSPCA P 03 9408 7356 Victoria. Barbara had been a Board member of RSPCA Victoria since 1986, also Peninsula serving as Vice President and Deputy Chair. 1030 Robinsons Road, Pearcedale 3912 Her passion and commitment to animal P 03 5978 6706 welfare were well known and her voluntary Portland contributions in support of animal welfare will 185 Darts Road, Portland 3305 be her legacy for generations to come. P 03 5523 4690
Sale 11 Hunt Place, Wurruk, Sale 3853 P 03 5143 2255
Wangaratta 1 Connell Street, Wangaratta 3677 P 03 5722 2874
Warrnambool 23 Braithwaite Street, Warrnambool 3280 P 03 5561 2591
If you are considering adopting an animal, please visit your local RSPCA or view our animals available for adoption at www.rspcavic.org.
Created by U-bahn design. Photography by James Walshe.