About Five Freedoms Animal Rescue and East Trentham Wildlife Shelter

Manfred Zabinskas: Owner / Operator of Five Freedoms Animal Rescue.

Manfred looks at KangarooBackground

Extensive experience as a Design and Industrial Engineer, (25 years), involving:

  • Project Management
  • Quality Assurance
  • Risk Assessment and Occupational Health and Safety

While engaged as a professional engineer, I completed a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Management) and began to focus on animal welfare. I operate a licensed Wildlife Shelter and have vast experience in the rescue, care and rehabilitation of many wildlife species and am considered one of Victoria's leading animal rescuers and trainers in this field.

In 2005, I received the Herald-Sun 'Pride of Australia' Medal for my efforts in wildlife rescue and contribution to animal welfare. 

I began operating Five Freedoms Animal Rescue in 2007 in order to provide humane management of animals who find themselves in conflict with human activity. E.g. in residential properties, on public land or on major construction and land development sites. Whether removing snakes, excluding possums from buildings or tranquillising large and dangerous animals, a safe and successful capture and the wellbeing of the animal is the driving force of my business. 

Additional to my commercial animal rescue business, I provide a 24-hour voluntary service to rescue sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Together with my partner, Helen, we care for and rehabilitate many of these animals at our licenced wildlife shelter.

Click here to learn about the Shelter

Manfred's Qualifications, Special Training and Licences

  • Bachelor of Science (Environmental Management)
  • Certificate IV in training and assessment
  • Wildlife Husbandry & Rehabilitation Course, Victoria University
  • WorkSafe OHS Construction Induction (White Card)
  • Safe use of tranquilliser darts, dart apparatus and drug handling, (National)
  • Firearm Safety Accreditation, including Tranquilliser Guns (National)
  • Tree Climbing Accreditation (National)
  • Working Safely at Heights (National)
  • Reptile and Venomous Snake Control Accreditation (National)
  • Senior First Aid Level 2
  • Commercial Wildlife (Controller Type 1) Licence
  • Wildlife Shelter Permit (DSE Authorisation No. 1307 4458)
  • Gun Licence Category A & B Longarm, Victoria
  • Gun Licence Category C, Victoria (tranquilliser)

Insurances

  • Public Liability Insurance

Copies of Certificates of Currency for insurance policies are available upon request