Possum carer takes on new charge

Raoul Harvey with his new charge, Harold.

Chris Ison

LAST week Raoul Harvey was battling the authorities for the right to keep his two tame possums.

This week, after winning over wildlife officers, the 62-year-old is caring for another little critter - this time with the official stamp of approval.

Mount Morgan's possum man is now an approved foster carer to rescued animals, and the first animal he's been asked to look after is a six-month-old orphaned possum called “Harold”.

“He was handed in to a vet in Yeppoon over the weekend and he's the cutest thing you've ever seen,” said Raoul as the wide-eyed little chap cuddled a soft toy panda for comfort.

“They gave me a call and asked me if I was able to take him in. How could you say no?”

As a foster carer Raoul is under orders to prepare Harold for a soft-release into the wild.

“I might play a part in his life for three months or so, until he's ready to fend for himself,” he said.

Raoul has two mature possums on his five acre property - including his constant companion, Josie, who travels everywhere inside his shirt.

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