This week we held a special memorial evening which included the official naming of one of our enclosures at the Sanctuary.

Toren Vergis was the head keeper at Bonorong for many years and a true wildlife conservationist. He had an amazing love for all native animals, but was particularly fond of wombats. A lot of people will not realise the many hours that were spent by Toren and our current owner Greg in their early years at Bonorong when they were the only two full-time staff. They were constantly thinking up ideas of what Bonorong may do in the future and Toren also had dreams of a wildlife rescue service, education programs and a dedicated wildlife hospital.

We wish Toren could be with us today to watch all of these programs grow and achieve everything he was so passionate about. It was fantastic to have some of Toren's family fly down to join us for the unveiling of the sign at Bonorong, and also amazing to see in attendance some of the staff that worked with Toren over 10 years ago.

His love of wildlife lives on through his wife Adele and daughter Zoe (pictured) who also joined us for this occasion. Zoe was even sporting one of Toren's Bonorong badges that he wore so proudly on his uniform.

We are proud to see Toren's name and memory permanently remembered through the naming of our wombat enclosure. Toren's sign can now be read by everyone that visits the Sanctuary.

Cheers to you Toz - a true wildlife champion, mentor, teacher and friend.

Photo thanks to Barrie Irons.