ABOUT US

Eventide Sanctuary

Eventide Sanctuary stands out as a unique haven of compassion, born from the adventurous spirit and deep-rooted kindness of its founder, Ian, a British Army veteran.

After migrating to Australia, Ian's journey across the country’s remote landscapes and diverse communities shaped his commitment to animal welfare. This was particularly influenced by his bond with Wally, a stray bush dog he rescued and nursed back to health.

Together, they explored Australia, fostering a mission to rescue and provide a sanctuary for animals in need. Situated on a property named after Ian's grandparents, Eventide Sanctuary embodies Ian’s dedication to offering a safe and loving home to Tasmania’s rescued animals.

The sanctuary not only serves as a refuge but also as a testament to Ian’s belief in a sustainable, non-consumptive relationship with animals. Ian, Wally, and their eclectic group of rescue animals warmly invite visitors to experience the sanctuary’s trusted community and witness the beauty of a life devoted to animal care and environmental conservation.

Read on to discover more about the history of Eventide Sanctuary, or if you'd like to come and visit us, book a visit!

From Adventure to Advocacy:
The Heartfelt Journey of Eventide Sanctuary

Ian is a veteran who came out of the British Army and came to Australia to readjust after his experience in the Army as a young man. In Australia, he bought an old 4x4 and began his journeys around Australia seeking the remote tracks and trails to find the real hidden beauty of Australia.

Along the way he stopped for work, working on outback stations, (where he got fired after they found out it was him who deactivated all the home-made wombat traps!) and as a mechanic on Fraser Island, (where he collected all the spare parts to build his 4x4!).

He then completed the iconic Telegraph Track up to the most northern tip of Australia at Cape York. His truck was needing repairs after the gruelling journey, so he asked the local indigenous workshop to use the facilities in return for work. Unknown to Ian, this was a huge surprise to them, and they soon loaded him up with work and he integrated into their community. During this time, Ian connected with his loyal friend Wally. Wally was a stray bush dog who had found shelter in the local workshop. Poor Wally had a nasty leg injury and Ian spent his wages and spare time feeding Wally, taking care of him and sharing adventures together.

During this time something connected between Wally and Ian and they both explored the rest of Australia together over the next 10 years, Wally’s adventures have become well known all over the country, never being too far from Ian’s side even in most workplaces!

Ian believes Wally gave him a new direction in his life and from the moment he met him he knew his purpose was to rescue more animals like Wally!

10 years on Ian has never lost sight of this goal and currently lives very basic himself, while devoting all his time and resources into rescuing all of the animals of Tasmania who need a new loving home.

His goal is to provide a safe, loving home for any animal that needs respite, all while trying to achieve the goal of proving it is possible to achieve a sustainable lifestyle from animals without consuming them.

Ian and Wally would love to welcome you to Eventide Sanctuary (named after Ian’s late grandparents property) and share the trusted connection they have with their eclectic group of rescue animals.