Santuary Stories: Ladybird

Meet Ladybird, from Lefty's Place Farm Sanctuary. Ladybird was rescued from a Werribee (Australia) cage egg farm, but as soon as she put her feet on the ground, she was off and running. No one can stop Ladybird now!

Ladybird hates to stand still and insists on exploring everything, everywhere!

Tamara Kenneally, Founder of Lefty’s Place said "I have no idea how she didn’t go insane standing in a small cage for almost two years. Even making her stand in this spot for this photo was a challenge, and you can see by the look on her face that she is not at all pleased.

Freedom, it’s all she wanted.

Lefty’s Place is a small animal refuge in the Macedon Ranges, Victoria (Australia), run by the incredible photographer, Tamara. It's a not-for-profit animal sanctuary that started with two sheep, named Lefty and Righty. Sadly Lefty passed away in early 2013, but since then Tamara has rescued, documented and given freedom and life to hundreds of animals.

Lefty’s Place has always focused on telling the individual animal’s story – from their hidden suffering in factory farms, abattoirs, saleyards and the like, through to their rescue, recovery and happy lives at Lefty’s Place Farm Sanctuary.

Why are animal sanctuaries important? 

Rescue and Rehabilitation: Animal sanctuaries provide a safe-haven for animals that have been rescued from abusive, neglectful, or dangerous situations. Many animals in sanctuaries have suffered from cruelty, exploitation, or injury, and these facilities offer them a chance to heal and recover.

Education and Awareness: Many sanctuaries serve as educational centers, allowing the public to learn about the animals, their natural behaviours, and the issues they face in the wild or captivity. This educational aspect can help raise awareness about animal welfare and conservation.

Promoting Compassion: Sanctuaries can inspire compassion and empathy toward animals. When people visit these facilities and see the animals' stories and the care they receive, it can foster a greater sense of responsibility and kindness toward animals.

Providing a Lasting Home: Many animals in sanctuaries cannot be released into the wild due to injuries, disabilities, or long-term captivity. Sanctuaries offer them a permanent home where they can live out their lives in a safe and comfortable environment.


In summary, animal sanctuaries play a crucial role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals that have been mistreated or exploited. They also contribute to education, conservation, and advocacy efforts, promoting a more compassionate and ethical approach to animal welfare.

If you'd like to make a donation and support the incredible animal rescue work Tamara is doing, visit the Lefty's Place website.

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