Apollo is an eastern grey kangaroo who has already faced more hardship than most wildlife ever should.
His life began with heartbreak after his mother became tangled in barbed wire and died, leaving Apollo alone and exposed on the ground. He was found by a passerby who knew to look for a joey and contacted carers for help. From there, Apollo was brought to Second Chance Wildlife Sanctuary, where he joined other eastern grey joeys of a similar age and began the long process of recovery.
Just as he was starting to grow stronger, another setback followed. During a violent summer storm that swept through the hinterland, hail the size of golf balls battered the area. Apollo wandered from shelter and was struck, shattering his fragile forearm.
He was rushed for veterinary treatment, where the fracture was repaired and his arm placed in a cast. During his recovery, Apollo was moved into the main house, where carers could closely monitor him in a calm, secure environment. A soft bed replaced the bush, and constant care helped his body heal.
The emotional scars took longer. Apollo was quiet and unsettled, needing patience and gentle reassurance. Over time, his confidence returned. He found comfort in his handmade pouch and the company of younger joeys.
When he was finally ready, Apollo rejoined the outdoor group, strong enough to return to the wild.
Even today, he bounces back to his rescuers in the morning, looking for a bottle and feed, before racing off and re-joining the mob.
A second chance realised.
