Annual Report 2017/2018

2 AWL Annual Report2 AWL Annual Report

CEO’s message It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Animal

Welfare League of South Australia Inc. (AWL) 2017/18

Annual Report.

This year the AWL’s Annual Report reflects the incredible work

undertaken by staff and volunteers working in line with our

strategic direction, values and vision. I endeavour to give you

an insight into the range of projects and services we provide.

During 2017/18 a strategic transition towards a model of

animal care, customer service and maximisation of our

commercial operations was implemented. We welcomed

Dr Sahra McFetridge to oversee veterinary and animal care,

Mark Gray in the new position of General Manager, Corporate

& Commercial, and added new positions in animal behaviour,

donor relations, marketing, fundraising, client relationship,

training, customer service and ReTAILs coordination. We

also farewelled Leanne Page, after 22 years of dedicated and

loyal service. A number of training sessions and programs

were hosted in 2017/18 to assist staff in strengthening and

developing new skills, including a significant investment

in wellbeing programs, ORANGES in particular, with 105

participants completing this course. We also continued our

professional development program for managers to build on

their practical and effective leadership skills.

A new ReTAILS thrift shop at Paralowie and renewed lease at

Gawler has enabled us to continue to grow our customer base

due to increased foot-traffic. After months of planning, I was

proud to attend the opening of the AWL Pet Crematorium in

August 2017. This purpose built facility, with specialised

equipment from Mathews Environmental (UK), enables the

AWL to lead the way in pet afterlife services – facilitating

the expansion of our services to even more pet owners, the

veterinary profession and their customers.

The AWL proactively collaborated in 2017/18 with many

local government authorities, planning for the new AWL dog

reclaim centre and improvements in programs and services

for stray cats. In addition to our work with local government,

over 1,800 people participated in the numerous education

and awareness programs offered. As the AWL embarks on

implementing the Master Plan for the Wingfield site, and

significant investment in the new Animal Care Centre, we are

planning for how our people will work together in the new

centre and the systems that are to be adopted to ensure the

AWL continues to deliver services in an efficient and effective

manner.

We experienced a successful year rehoming lost or unwanted

pets as a result of investments in resources and programs

culminating in 879 fewer animals requiring our services,

while achieving a 6% increase in pets finding a new home

or being reunited with their owners. Most impressive was

the additional 817 cats finding homes in 2017/18, a 29%

increase when compared to the year prior, a testament to

the tireless work of our loyal staff, volunteers and foster

carers, and our PETstock partners whom all have an amazing

capacity and passion for animal welfare.

Leading an organisation through change can be difficult,

however; it is made less so when surrounded by a supportive

Board and positive visionary leaders. I have the greatest

admiration for our staff and volunteers who throughout the

year remained unwavering in their commitment to the work

they do. To these people, all our donors, supporters and

industry partners I thank you for making this all possible.

Richard Mussell, CEOMBA BBus GAICD

Our Board

Luci Zwarycz Chairman

Michelle Williams MBA

Deputy-ChairmanPhil Reeve BVsc, CMAVA, MAICD

Leah Wright LLB (Hons), BCom

AWL Annual Report 3AWL Annual Report 3

Chairman’s report

Steven Weinert BA (Acc.), M.Comm., FCPA, GAICD

Cate Gaston BA, GDipTour, GDipMgt, FGLF17

Dr Rob Rahaley BVSc MVSc PhD DACVP MANZCVS, GAICD

Dr Jo Powell BSc DVM BEd (Adult Ed) DipMgt CIVTAE

This year, as our plans are moving from development to

implementation, we have been busy preparing and focussing

our efforts in three main areas: the Wingfield Master Plan,

governance and strategic planning.

Wingfield Masterplan

Following the launch of the Master Plan in 2016/17, the

Board has undertaken due diligence, to refine the brief and

scope of work of this plan, plus to develop staging plans for

priority projects. We have been stringent in this development,

ensuring each project aligns with the financial plan and

assigned project budget. The Board has assessed and

appointed a consultant team, led by our project managers, Jim

Allen and Associates, to assist the AWL through this process.

During 2017/18, we commenced the development

application for Stage One of the Master Plan, a new car

park and dog walking zone, with the support of the Port

Adelaide Enfield Council. Another great success during this

year includes the design development and application for

planning approval for Stage Two of the Master Plan; the new

Animal Care Centre. This detailed planning is a milestone

achievement for the whole team and, after five years of

preparation and prudent financial management, a new ‘hub’

for animals in need, and the broader community is edging

closer to reality - a truly generational change for the AWL.

Governance

We maintained our focus on skills and succession planning

for the AWL Board Members this year, as we welcomed new

Board Member, Katherine Bartolo, who provides skills in

property valuation and advisory. The Board also undertook

an external evaluation of its performance and processes

and developed an action plan for further improvement and

ongoing risk assessment.

We said thank you and farewell to Tom Green and Dr Phil

Reeve, who both made valuable contributions as members of

the AWL Board; we wish them all the best for the future. We

also remember Kerry Colmer, a past Board Member, who sadly

passed away in early 2018.

We had another productive year, having held a total of 24

sub-committee meetings which included: eight Animal

Welfare meetings, eight Risk & Governance meetings, and

eight Finance & Audit meetings. We have also improved

the Board’s efficiency, with the use of the board portal for

meeting papers, guiding documents and also for board

discussions and decisions between meetings. We look forward

to further action and development in the 2018/19 year.

Strategic Planning

Following the success of the Masterplan, and after

consultation with stakeholders, the Board and Management

Team developed a revised strategic direction for 2018-

2021. Our strategic priorities remain outwardly focused,

with an emphasis on providing people with information and

exceptional customer service, supporting the community by

collaborating with local government and assisting our ageing

population with their pets. The foundation activities have

broadened to incorporate the need to improve our facilities

and systems, with minimal change to our long-standing

purpose and values. We have successfully developed a new

plan that will provide clarity and direction through to 2021.

As I conclude my term as Chairman, I would like to thank our

volunteer Board for their stewardship and strategic guidance

that enabled many achievements, most notably the initiation

of our new Animal Care Centre building project. My heartfelt

thanks go to all of our staff, volunteers and supporters for

another great year achieving our vision of ‘connecting people,

pets and community’.

Lucy Zwarycz, Chairman

Katherine BartoloAAPI CPV

Our Values

• Compassionate

We demonstrate care and understanding

by listening and providing support

• Optimistic We have a positive outlook and focus on

what is possible

• Reliable We consistently demonstrate integrity,

transparency and professionalism

• Resilient We are determined, energised and able

to recover and refocus

• Adaptable We are flexible in our approach and

look for opportunities in change

Our Vision

Connecting People,

Pets and Community

Our Purpose

We improve the health and

welfare of animals by encouraging

a community that values the

human-animal bond to enrich

the lives of people and their pets

4 AWL Annual Report

Throughout 2017/18 the AWL team have

worked tirelessly to ensure that our strategic

pillars of ‘people, pets and community’ are

upheld through every action and success.

As we look back on the past year, we highlight

each of these successes and how they have

exemplified our goals and values.

People

The AWL places a high value on our team, as

without a strong team we could not encourage and

support responsible pet ownership to the community.

Throughout 2017/18 the AWL team has grown to 119

staff and now includes nine new roles.

The team have also completed 418.5 hours of training,

with 163 training opportunities. Alongside this, the AWL

Volunteers contributed 51,675 hours to the AWL which

had a dollar value of $1,418,493.00

Pets

Through 2017/18 the AWL have connected more pets than

ever before with safe and caring homes, 4,635 animals were

adopted (a 15% year-on-year increase), plus 1,739 animals

were reunited with their owners. With 8% fewer animals

entering the AWL, higher adoption numbers display improved

animal care plans, assessment guidelines and rehabilitation

processes.

In 2017/18 AWL volunteer Foster Carers have fostered 1,323

animals in 116 foster families.

Community

To create a community that embraces and values pets the AWL

presented promotional and educational events, campaigns, tours and

programs. In the past year, the AWL participated in over 160 external

events, increasing community engagements and driving donations.

AWL Connect and Protect Microchipping Events saw 610 pets from the

community microchipped, a 125% year-on-year increase form 2016/17.

Over 170 AWL focussed stories were promoted by media, including television,

radio and newspapers, plus the AWL’s social media following grew to

63,334 people.

Community fundraising events, the Workplace Giving program, business

and public donations, AWL’s fundraising initiatives, and community

giving all assisted to fund the AWL in 2017/18.

Looking forward: 2018-2021

Looking back: 2017-2018

People AWL Annual Report 5

The AWL team have experienced sustainable

and continued growth in the number of

roles offered for both staff and volunteers

throughout the 2017-2018 period.

During this time the AWL’s employee numbers

grew to a total of 119 staff. This growth has

been concurrent with the expanding roles and

programs offered by the AWL, resulting in the

creation of nine new roles, which include:

• Fundraising Coordinator

• Client Relationship Manager

• Customer Service Officers

• Behaviour Supervisor

• Learning and Development Coordinator

• Veterinary Services Manager

• General Manager of Corporate and

Commercial Services

• Donor Relations Officer

• WHS Quality Coordinator

The AWL continues to focus on

providing training and support for staff

and volunteers.

AWL People, Pets & Community

PeopleStaff received a total of 418.5 hours of

training throughout the 2017-2018 period.

The AWL’s focus on professional

development has seen a range of training

opportunities presented for both staff and

volunteers. The courses have covered a

range of topics, each relating to the themes

of; personal development, workplace health

and safety, animal care, customer service

and organisational development. Highlights

have included ORANGES training which

focused on personal development and

resilience, and Respectful Workplaces

training which was utilised to help sustain a

positive and enjoyable working environment

for all at the AWL.

The AWL also conducted a volunteer

survey, which provided volunteers a chance

to express honest thoughts, concerns

and feedback on their time volunteering

with the AWL. This feedback has been

used to inform our ongoing improvements

throughout 2018/19.

Frances has been a committed

and passionate volunteer for the

AWL since 2016 and attends a

regular shift every Monday, come

hail or shine. Frances’ volunteering

journey is similar to many other

loyal and dedicated volunteers,

but in Frances’ case, her desire

to help the AWL has meant she

had to overcome some challenges.

Frances was diagnosed with

autism at an early age, and for her,

many everyday tasks (things often

taken for granted) are harder to

process. Over the past two years,

Frances has grown and developed

tremendously. She is much more

able to engage in conversations with

staff and other volunteers, she is

more confident in her abilities, and

above all, she wants to continue

making a difference to the lives of

the dogs that she loves. Frances

is a valuable member of the AWL

team, and we look forward to the

incredible future she’s sure to bring

to the AWL.

Staff and volunteers

Value of volunteers

43,010 HOURS2016/17

51,675 HOURS2017/18

$1,180,6482016/17

$ $1,418,4932017/18

The AWL staff training

2016

39

161.5 152.5

418.5

35

163

2017 2018

Hours

Opportunity

6 AWL Annual Report

6000

7000

8000

Incoming and outgoing cats

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/170

Throughout 2017/18, the team have continued to encourage responsible pet ownership,

to promote the benefits of the human-animal bond, and to improve the welfare and care of

animal companions.

Through a range of strategies and programs, the AWL can confirm that not only has the intake

of animals to the AWL decreased by 8% to 10,140, but the adoption rates have also grown

by 15% to a total 4,635 adoptions. Results show that while fewer animals need the care of

the AWL, the team have connected more animals than ever before with loving homes.

Within the past year the AWL has seen a 10% decrease in the number of stray animals

brought into the facility. The team’s efforts can visibly have contributed to the past year’s

decrease, due to the AWL’s work in the community sector, including the many education

programs that are held on and off-site, the advisory role held by the AWL to the Dog and Cat

Management Board, and the AWL’s Connect and Protect Microchipping events which offer

low-cost microchipping options. With the newly introduced microchipping and desexing laws,

the AWL anticipates further reduced intake numbers alongside higher numbers of returned

pets to owners in the coming year.

The increase in the number of animal adoptions in 2017/18 are almost certainly linked to the

efforts of staff and volunteers to reach a zero euthanasia target for all healthy, sociable and

treatable animals. New strategies and programs include changes to the health and behaviour

assessment criteria, follow up phone calls to all adoptees, outsourcing specialised veterinary

services through partnerships with veterinary practices, and offering off-site cat, kitten and

rabbit adoptions from various locations, including all metropolitan PETstock stores and For

Pet’s Sake.

With a big year of activation, the AWL team are proud to have continued toward our vision of

connecting pets with safe and caring homes, having achieved the highest numbers of animal

adoptions in the AWL’s history.

AWL People, Pets & Community

PetsPe

ts2017-2018

2017/18

Outgoing % to homes

Outgoing cats (home)

Incoming cats

21% 23%30%

42%

55%

AWL Annual Report 7

Incoming animals are gradually going down but, adoption numbers are up!

than 2016/17

6000

7000

8000

Incoming and outgoing dogs

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/170

879 less

617 more

920 more

818less

less

animals

offsite adoptions

adoptions

5,30810,140

933

4635

599than 2016/17

than 2016/17

than 2016/17

incoming to the AWL 2017/18

than 2016/17

Vet report

In light of the AWL’s purpose to improve the welfare

and care of our animal companions, to assist the

veterinary team in upholding this purpose, the

AWL has employed a full time Veterinary Services

Manager. This new position has resulted in new

external relationships with veterinary clinics and

Local Councils, as well as the development of many

strategies to ensure that more animals than ever

are receiving the care and treatment necessary to

become available for adoption. Through working

closely with veterinary partners, the AWL have been

able to offer specialised, lifesaving surgeries that the

AWL is unable to provide. For these animals surgery

has included soft palate surgery, bilateral knee

surgery, tail amputation, eye surgery and even limb

amputations.

The huge achievements in animal care have also

encompassed the employment of a Behaviour

Supervisor, who has redefined the behaviour

assessment guidelines, which are used to

determine an animal’s adoption availability. This

new position has also expanded the programs

and resources offered to animals to assist them in

their rehabilitation and increase their potential for

adoption. These new programs and improvements

include a growth in the Foster Care team, expansion

in medical treatments available, new roles in

the Behaviour team (who train and assess the

animals), and changes to the Tender Love and Care

programs; all together this has resulted in 617

more animals becoming available for adoption

than in 2016/17.

The behaviour and vet team have reviewed the

AWL’s community support programs for owned pets,

which has allowed the AWL to help more owners

to keep their pets in their homes, rather than to

surrender them.

These changes have not only assisted the AWL

to improve the welfare for the animals in care

and in the community, but they have also

helped to connect many more pets with safe

and caring homes.

stray animals

2017/18

incoming to the AWL

Outgoing % to homesOutgoing dogs (home)Incoming dogs

63% 65% 69%76%

79%

animals euthanased

8 AWL Annual Report

Pet Cremations

The AWL provide unparalleled service and support throughout

these times of hardship to owners as they farewell their pets.

A new state-of-the-art Pet Cremation facility completed in mid

2017 is the only one of its kind in the state. It provides individual

cremation chambers for all pets entrusted to the AWL.

The AWL Pet Cremation service has continued improving

services throughout 2017/18 to better support grieving

families. The introduction of a home collection service, which

is available seven days per week, complements our existing

services, and adds an extra dimension to the care provided by

the AWL. This service allows for the families of deceased pets

to call the AWL Cremation Team and organise for their pet to be

collected straight from the comfort of their home. A new online

booking and tracking system also ensures that families can

track the location of their pet throughout the process, helping

to put the family’s minds to ease, that the ashes returned to

their household are those of their beloved animal.

In addition to this service, AWL Pet Cremations have also

improved customer access for those living in regional areas

through the creation of new relationships with regional vet

clinics. The AWL team are able to support customers living in the

Riverland area with new Vet Clinic partners, as well as customers

in the Barossa Valley area, with a secondary collection/return

service added within the past year.

The appointment of a Client Relationship Manager in 2017/18

allows the AWL to develop stronger and more responsive

relationships with out vet partners. As these relationships grow,

the AWL will be able to support even more grieving families

through the pet cremation process.

Your beloved pet and best friend is lovingly transported from your trusted vet by the AWL

Your pets’ remains enter the crematorium and are turned to ashes (owners are welcome to be present for a funeral ceremony)

Your beloved pets’ remains are collected and placed in the chosen urn or jewellery

Your pet is lovingly returned to your trusted vet awaiting to be picked up and taken home

Your beloved pet is respectfully held, awaiting cremation

Online booking and tracking process

1

2

3

4

5

AWL Annual Report 9

Current AWL Dog Training courses include:

• Mutts with Manners

• Really Reliable Recall

• Reactive Rover

• Private Lessons

The AWL’s Dog Training team provide personalised and

hands-on advice for clients and their dogs and look

forward to many more training opportunities.

Pet Boarding

The AWL Pet Boarding continues to provide trusted pet

accommodation. With a strong customer base of new and

returning customers, the Pet Boarding statistics have continued

to hold steady during the 2017-2018 period; with nearly 3,000

bookings. While the total number of boarding bookings has

slightly decreased, the total length of stay has increased to 8.9

days, indicating a good level of customer satisfaction.

The AWL has boarded dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, rabbits,

rats, ferrets and even chickens in 2017/18.

AWL Dog Training

The AWL Dog Training team are committed to providing

force-free, scientifically proven training advice to customers

and the broader community. The team continue to offer a range

of training options for dogs of all shapes, sizes and abilities

including both private and group training sessions.

To streamline the courses and add more valuable training

options, the AWL Dog Training team reviewed the program

in 2017/18 and gained additional certifications to further

improve course components. The employment of the Behaviour

Supervisor in 2017/18 provided the Dog Training team with

increased strategic direction.

Chicken 20

Rat 5

Rabbit 9.6

Ferret 1

Dog 8.3

Cat 9.7

Bird 11.8

Guinea Pig 6

Average length of stays (days)

Pet Grooming

The professional services provided by the AWL

Grooming team has resulted in many happy pets

and owners over the past year, with nearly 400 pets

groomed. The AWL Groomers continue to provide

an extensive range of grooming services including

clipping, coat stripping, bathing, brushing and nail

clipping. In 2017/18, this was expanded to include

hygiene tidies, introductory puppy grooms, mini-spas,

anal gland flushes and flea washes. This increase

in services has allowed the AWL to grow our

‘value-add’ service by an astounding 254% within

the 2017/18 period.

Pet Services

AWL Grooming service purchases

Grooming

Clipping

Other

Hygiene 16

270.5

217

58

Roshi came into the care of the AWL on Valentine’s Day

2018. He stayed with the AWL team for three months; a

total of 97 days, due to his medical needs. On arrival, the

AWL team diagnosed Roshi with brachycephalic airway

obstructive syndrome; this is a genetic disorder that caused

his airways to become obstructed on the intake of breath.

This ailment meant that Roshi could never breathe clearly

and unsurprisingly the disorder can prove life-threatening

when animals become excited, do any physical activity

or overheat. Roshi also displayed behavioural problems

that would need to improve before rehoming. The AWL

organised a soft palate surgery for Roshi, with Vets4Pets

Golden Grove and placed him into Foster Care with a

behaviour plan in place. As he recovered from surgery, his

behaviour also improved and he flourished into a dog who

was ready to find his ‘Happy Home’. Roshi is now living

happily with his new mother and a fur-brother

called Goku.

Esmerelda, a four-year-old Blue Heeler, was

originally adopted from the AWL in 2015. In 2017

Esmerelda sustained an injury to her knee, due to

being overweight, which caused her to be unable to

bear weight on her leg. After taking her to the vet, her

owner learned the cost of this surgery was well beyond

his means to afford and felt there was no other option

than to surrender ‘Ezzie’ back to the AWL. On contacting

the team, the AWL understood the heartbreak in this

decision and instead offered an alternative option. The AWL

organised to take Esmerelda into care, facilitate her recovery,

and designed a weight management plan that would prevent

further damage. When she had begun losing weight, the AWL

was then able to reunite her with her home and owner. The

AWL and Esmerelda’s local vet have been working together to

track Ezzie’s weight loss, which is at an impressive 12kg so far.

After the support and education from the team, Esmerelda and

her owner are now living a much more active, healthy and happy

life together.

10 AWL Annual Report

Roshi

Esmeralda

A new beginning

AWL Annual Report 11

Marley is a beautiful Burmese cat who came into the AWL in

2017, and after desexing, vaccination and receiving dental

work, quickly found her home. However, she was returned

for health concerns, which is when it was discovered that she

had developed an ulcer in her eye, causing her severe pain

and discomfort. To save her vision and the eye itself, Marley

vitally needed specialist surgery. The Veterinary Ophthalmic

Referrals team committed to assist the AWL with this surgery, and

performed the operation that not only removed the ulcers, but

ultimately saved Marley’s eye. During her four-month recovery,

Marley spent time in loving foster care, where she was able to

experience a ‘home life’ after her eye had healed, Marley became

available for adoption. Marley’s very first owner, who had lost her

over a year ago, contacted the AWL and was overjoyed that she was

safe and healthy. Then they adopted Marley back into their home

and are now living happily together.

Daisy was surrendered to the AWL in 2017 where she found

her first home within the month; however, she was returned

to the AWL due to behavioural problems. While at the AWL,

Daisy showed signs of aggression, stress, unpredictability

and overstimulation, which were concerning behaviours for

the team who wanted to ensure her happiness and safety.

After deliberation, it was decided that Daisy could trial

as a foster case within the AWL’s veterinary clinic, where

she could be readily monitored and interacted in the

hope that she would become less stressed outside of the

shelter. Happily for Daisy, she quickly came out of her

shell and showed that she was a spunky, spirited cat.

After spending a further three months in the care of the

AWL, and making many friends in the vet team, Daisy

connected with the perfect home for her needs. Now,

months later, Daisy is living happily in her new home

where she makes her new family laugh with

her antics.

Daisy

MarleyAWL Annual Report 11

The AWL Foster Care program was

responsible for the lifesaving work of

successfully fostering 1,323 animals

throughout 2017/18. Since its development,

the Foster Care program has blossomed into

one of the largest volunteer-based programs

that the AWL offers. The number of Foster

Carers has grown within the past year and

now totals 119 active carers.

In 2017/18 AWL Foster Carers provided care

for a variety of animals including kittens,

cats, puppies, dogs, rabbits, rats, mice and

even a sheep. The volunteer carers are

provided with a range of support and training

including induction, basic animal care classes

and advanced training for carers who work

with behavioural and medical rehabilitation

animals. During 2017/18, the team welcomed

a Foster Care Assistant, allowing the team to

increase the number of animals in care, and

to provide increased support to carers.

In concurrence with previous years, the

highest proportion of animals needing foster

care continued to be kittens with a total of

1,049 kittens. Continuing to improve the

welfare of animals within the community

and the AWL’s care, more adult animals

than previous years were placed into the

Foster Care program. The placement of adult

animals is generally to assist with behaviour

modification, to heal from surgeries and to

receive tender love and care.

In 2017/18 the AWL experienced a 42%

increase in the number of adult cats that

received foster care, totalling 181. The

number of adult dogs who received foster

care also increased by 7% with a total of

49 dogs.

The Foster Care team also cared for some

special guests in 2017/18, including four

rats, one sheep and baby rabbits.

The Foster Care program allows the AWL

team to connect animals with caring and

safe homes, and also improve the welfare

of our animal companions while in the

care of the AWL. We look forward to many

more happy outcomes in 2018/19 and new

Foster Carers joining the team.

Foster Care report

Registered Foster Carers

2014/15

2016/17

44

116

40 2013/14

2015/1671

2017/18119

12 AWL Annual Report

Rabbit

Puppy

Kitten

Dog

Native Birds

Ferret

Rat

Sheep

Mouse

Cat

2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18

Fostered animal types 2013-2018

Com

mun

ityTo create a community that embraces and values pets, as well as to encourage and support responsible pet

ownership, the AWL hosted and participated in a range of community events throughout 2017/18. Events

are not only successful tools to promote the AWL’s messaging of responsible pet ownership, but are also

effective fundraising opportunities. Without government funding, the AWL relies heavily on donations from the

community and thus on community activations. During 2017/18, the AWL team have participated in a total

of 163 external events; these have included:

• Royal Adelaide Show • Houndwave • Connect and Protect Microchipping Events

• A Pet’s Breakfast • Paws at the Port • Getting 2 Zero (G2Z) Summit

• Doggys Big Day Out • UBER x Fringe • PETstock Adoption Day

• Bunnings BBQ’s • Donation Day • AWL Education and Awareness Events

Connect and Protect

The AWL developed Connect and Protect Microchipping Events in response to the alarming rates of owned,

unmicrochipped animals entering the care of the AWL. Since its development in 2017, the Connect and Protect

Events have flourished and in the past year, 610 animals were microchipped, which is a 125% increase from

2016/17 when 270 animals were microchipped. The AWL has partnered with three local councils in 2017/18

to activate these events including the City of Playford, The City of Port Adelaide Enfield and the City of Adelaide.

AWL Annual Report 13

Connect and Protect

April ‘17

47 TOTAL 223 TOTAL 289 TOTAL 118 TOTAL 203 TOTAL 363 TOTAL

36 129 209 87 149 24211 91 75 37 54 1210 3 5 0 0 0

Light Regional Council

Oth

er

Oth

er

Oth

er

Oth

er

Oth

er

Oth

er

City of Playford

City of Playford

City of Port Adelaide Enfield

City of Port Adelaide Enfield

City of Adelaide

May ‘17 May ‘18 July ‘18July ‘17 August ‘17

Events

AWL People, Pets & Community

Community

MICROCHIPPED MICROCHIPPED MICROCHIPPED MICROCHIPPED MICROCHIPPED MICROCHIPPED

In an ever information-driven society the AWL’s purpose to

encourage responsible pet ownership, promote the benefits of

the human-animal bond and to strive to improve the welfare of

animals within the community, has never before had so many

communication platforms. With the growth of social media, the

AWL is no longer solely reliant on traditional media like print,

radio and TV, but now controls messaging and conversations

across social media channels like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube,

Instagram and LinkedIn.

During 2017/18, the AWL team have actively promoted

messaging across all forms of traditional media and have

successfully achieved 178 known media stories. The most

influential and memorable of these stories continues to be the

two consecutive features on the popular TV program Indoors

Outdoors, where the AWL Pet Reading Buddy program and the

AWL Cremations service featured.

With a strong social media following of 63,334 people;

collated from 58,339 followers on Facebook, 3,861 followers

on Instagram, 782 followers on Twitter and 352 followers

on LinkedIn, the AWL continue to activate these platforms to

communicate with our community.

During 2017/18, multiple social media campaigns produced

highly successful results, including the Name Your Price Cat

adoption promotions which reached 86,700 people, the Connect

and Protect Facebook posts which reached 63,700 people, the

call-out regarding the Fringe/UBER /AWL collaboration which

reached 61,200 people, the AWL Christmas Appeal campaign

which reached 37,700 people, and an educational post on cat

confinement within the community which reached 49,700 people.

These examples show the highly engaging and influential nature

of social media to increase awareness and interaction with the

AWL’s messages.

14 AWL Annual Report

Media

Facebook facebook.com/awlsa

58,339

Twitter @awlsa

782

Instagram @awl_sa

3,861

Linkedin animal welfare league

352

AWL Annual Report 15

Community fundraising

As a non-profit organisation that receives no government funding,

the AWL heavily relies on community donations to fund our

animal care programs and services.

Regular Community Donations

The JB Hi-Fi Workplace Giving program, which is united with

the Animal Welfare League of Australia (AWLA), continues to be

a solid source of financial aid to the AWL and the thousands of

animals in our care. The AWL received nearly $90,000 as a

result of the Workplace Giving Program. Alongside this, JB Hi-Fi

has gone above and beyond this year with the ‘Art for AWLA’

campaign which involved the sale of postcards across JB Hi-Fi

counters, nationally. JB Hi-Fi raised over $37,000 for the AWL

from this campaign, however funds were not distributed to each

state body until the 2018/19 period.

PETstock also continue to be a wonderful source of support for

the AWL, not only through off-site adoptions program (which

is now run in all seven Adelaide metropolitan PETstock stores)

but also through regular donations of treats, toys, grooming

products and enrichment equipment. Thank you to PETstock for

continuous support and donations to the AWL.

The Photographyroom initiated a new fundraising project for

the AWL within 2017/18 called ‘HappyTails…Stories of Adopted

Dogs’, this involved the production of a photo book showcasing

photos of adopted dogs. Proceeds from the photos and the

book sales will be donated to the AWL. The Photographyroom

continued to raise funds through the $20 Pet Sessions which

tallied $1,980 in donations within the past year.

Donation tins are supported throughout the community within

local businesses and clubs to help raise vital funds for the AWL.

Over 200 businesses host these tins and have raised over

$10,000.

Fundraising Events

External events are an important opportunity for the AWL,

including the monthly Bunnings BBQ, which raised over

$14,000 for the AWL. The AWL Junior Ambassador, William

Brown, hosted his annual school BBQ at Portside Christian

School, and this year William raised in excess of $1,800 for the

AWL, plus collected 1,363 items to donate.

The AWL ‘A Pets Breakfast’ is another invaluable source of

income that is spearheaded by businesses within our community

who host a breakfast or lunch event as a means to raise

donations for the AWL.

AWL Fundraising Initiatives

The AWL ReTAILS Thrift Shops raised over $200,000 in 2017/18

and the ReTAILS Thrift Shop from Parafield Gardens relocated to

Paralowie. This has increased the customer base and exposure to

foot-traffic.

The AWL Lottery is a community reliant fundraiser to assist the

AWL in raising funds. In the past year, the AWL lotteries reached

over $304,000, with funds invested directly in the care of

animals at the AWL. The AWL is acutely aware of the generosity

of our community and our thanks go to all who helped us during

2017/18.

4 Excursions = 91

5 Pop ups = 216Educational pop ups

Education is paramount for the AWL to reach our goals of

creating a community that embraces and values pets; to

encourage and support responsible pet owners; to promote the

benefits of the human-animal bond and to improve the welfare

and care of animal companions.

The varied courses offered by the AWL allows for exposure

of educational messages to all age groups; from school level

programs like Pet Reading Buddy and BFF Workshops, to

adult and community educational events like Tour De Fur,

Presentations and ‘Pop-up’ events in conjunction with local

councils. The AWL work to ensure that all pet owners and the

broader community are engaged in relevant and meaningful

ways.

The number of educational events held within the 2017/18 also

grew by 38% to 102 events. Within this time, 1831 individuals

were reached with the AWL’s educational messaging, which

shows year on year growth of 143%.

The AWL relies on community generosity and donations

to provide care for thousands of animals annually. We are

keenly aware of the kindness received from our partners and

sponsors—thank you!

Education and awareness Working together

16 AWL Annual Report

4 Pet Reading Buddy = 37

participants

1 Volunteer presentation = 76

25 Student Project & Support = 29

27 Tour de Fur = 289

Pets & Wellbeing Presentation

Best Fur Friends Workshop

1 P&W = 24

Responsible Pet Ownership Presentation

9 Pet First Aid = 97

7 BFF = 381

15 RPOP = 591

AWLHappyHomes#

“Lennie is doing great! Can’t feel her hip

bones anymore, making friends with my

babies and even met the dog yesterday

through the glass door!” – Katie

Lenora Lennie-maomao

“Mater has such a sweet nature and is

still trusting even after his rough start. He

has really become part of the family, feels

like he’s always been here.” – Nicola

Mater

“We adopted Pepper a couple of months ago. We love her dearly and couldn’t imagine her not being a part of our family.” – Renée

Pepper

“Morgana Lucy, adopted at the end of December, has settled in very well. This is her exploring her CatPad. Thanks to AWL, life’s good for us both!” – Beryll

Morgana Lucy

AWL Annual Report 17

Twitter @awlsa

Facebook facebook.com/awlsa

Instagram @awl_sa

Share your story...contactus@awl.org.au

The AWL has a long and proud history of financially sustainable operations in

South Australia. I am pleased to report that the AWL continues to operate upon

sound business strategy and strong financial governance. The AWL manages the

Investment Portfolio closely with industry-leading expertise.

The association’s investment in the new state-of-the-art Pet Cremation facilities,

built at Edinburgh North in 2016/17, has reinforced the AWL’s competitive

advantage in the Adelaide pet cremations market. Despite some challenging

business conditions and revenue impacts from an aggressive new commercial

competitor, the AWL has maintained significant market share. This profitable

business enterprise remains an important funding source for the organisation,

supporting the wide variety of charitable services provided by the AWL.

2017/18 has seen continued investment in improved animal care outcomes,

including additional veterinary resources, an expanded Foster Care Program,

community education activities and off-site adoption programs. The partnership

with PETstock retail stores alone has delivered over 930 pet adoptions,

contributing to an overall 15% year on year increase in pets successfully

re-homed by the AWL.

Legacies and bequests from our generous supporters continue to underwrite the

future of our charitable mission. In the past year, the AWL received in excess of

$2.7 million in bequests, enabling detailed planning for the long-overdue renewal

of ageing animal care infrastructure to progress with confidence. Final plans for

Stages One and Two of the Wingfield Master Plan have been lodged with Council

and are awaiting formal Development Approval.

The past year has been one of intense planning and activity which has

seen the development of a new Strategic Plan. This plan will become a key

reference point as we continue to refine the AWL facility redevelopment plans,

operational structures and information system investments. Robust planning

and governance systems underpin these activities, guiding the AWL to

deliver the vision of ‘Connecting People, Pets and Community’.

Mark Gray

General Manager,

Corporate and Commercial Services

Financial Sustainability

18 AWL Annual Report

AWL Annual Report 19

Revenue 2018 $ 2017 $

Operational income 6,082,106 6,608,757

Legacies and bequests received 2,744,727 5,171,414

Other income 672,857 715,392

9,499,690 12,495,563

Expenses

Employee expenses (6,407,111) (5,499,349)

Other expenses from ordinary activities (3,516,250) (3,198,386)

Net current year surplus / (deficit) (423,671) 3,797,828

Other comprehensive income 193,573 231,029

Total comprehensive income for the year (230,098) 4,028,857

Assets 2018 $ 2017 $

Current Assets 21,822,966 24,227,275

Non-current Assets 22,171,417 20,441,944

Total Assets 43,994,383 44,669,219

Liabilities

Current Liabilities 1,749,402 2,097,581

Non-current Liabilities 283,607 380,166

Total Liabilities 2,033,009 2,477,747

Net Assets 41,961,374 42,191,472

Equity

Accumulated Surplus 20,472,705 20,994,736

Reserves 21,488,669 21,196,736

Total Equity 41,961,374 42,191,472

The above financial information is an extract taken from the Audited Financial Report for the year ending

June 30, 2018. A full copy of the Audited Financial Report is available to financial members upon request.

Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

Statement of Financial Position

Fina

ncial

s

20 AWL Annual Report

Animal Welfare League South Australia Inc.1-19 Cormack RoadWingfield SA 5013

P: (08) 8348 1300F: (08) 8268 9545E: contactus@awl.org.auW: awl.org.au

Edinburgh North 4 Hewittson RoadEdinburgh North SA 5113

P: (08) 8256 0000

ABN: 11 397 137 539

How you can help?

Lend a PAW

• Adopt an animal

• Make a financial gift

• Board your pet

• Enrol in ‘Mutts with Manners’

AWL Dog Training

• Have your dog groomed

at AWL Grooming

• Donate goods for the ReTAILS

Thrift Shops

• Volunteer your time

• Get involved in AWL events

• Donate items such as toys, and

treats

• Become an AWL Foster Carer.