Preserving for the Future — Frequently Asked Questions

People come to preservation for many different reasons — curiosity, education, memorial projects, or simply a love of Australia’s wildlife. This FAQ is here to guide you through the most common questions about my services, ethical requirements, specimen viability, workshops, and what to expect when working with me.

If you’re unsure about anything or your situation isn’t covered here, you’re always welcome to reach out. I’m happy to help you understand your options and point you in the right direction.

If you’re getting in touch about a specimen, photos of its current condition and how it has been stored are incredibly helpful. Even a quick phone snapshot gives me enough information to assess viability and guide you through your next steps.

If you’re enquiring about workshops, collaborations, or general questions, feel free to reach out with whatever details you have — I’m here to help.

Yes — I offer a range of preservation and replica‑making services for individuals, artists, educators, and collectors. All commissions are handled with care, transparency, and respect for both the specimen and the client.

All requests must be submitted through the online Commission Request Form. This ensures:

• Clear documentation of your needs

• Space to upload reference images

• Accurate quoting

• Legally compliant handling of specimens

Once submitted, I’ll review your request and contact you with next steps.

You’ll be asked for:

• Species (common and scientific name if known)

• Condition of the specimen

• How the specimen was obtained

• Your preferred preservation style

• Any deadlines or display requirements

I do not offer full pet taxidermy on domestic animsl. Instead, I provide memorial keepsakes such as resin inclusions, fur clippings, paw impressions, and other gentle options that honour your companion without attempting lifelike recreation.

Yes. Taxidermy is legal in WA when it complies with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2018. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has confirmed that you may possess and preserve dead fauna without a licence under certain conditions.

Members of the public can access current wildlife licensing information through the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Wildlife Licensing portal. This is the official source for updates, licence requirements, and regulatory guidance under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2018.

DBCA Wildlife Licensing Portal: https://wildlifelicensing.dbca.wa.gov.au/

For broader information on fauna licences, fact sheets, and guidelines, DBCA also provides a public overview here: https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/licences-and-permits/fauna

These pages are updated as the Department reviews and refines how licensing applies to activities such as taxidermy, specimen possession, and the handling of native fauna.

In most cases, no, but you must be legally allowed to possess the specimen. Some native fauna require:

• A licence to keep

• Documentation proving lawful acquisition

• Evidence the animal was not taken from the wild illegally

If you’re unsure, I can help you determine what’s required.

Yes — taxidermy is legal in WA when carried out in accordance with the Biodiversity Conservation Act and Regulations. The DBCA has confirmed that possession of dead fauna (excluding cetaceans) is permitted without a licence under specific conditions, and you are currently operating under written guidance from the Department while they review how licensing applies to taxidermy services.

Clients should always ensure their specimen was obtained legally and meets the criteria outlined in Regulation 52.

Yes. Each Australian state and territory has its own wildlife legislation, licensing systems, and rules around:

• Possession of native fauna

• Collection of roadkill

• Transport of biological material

• Taxidermy and specimen preparation

• Sale or trade of preserved fauna

Anyone handling, transporting, or submitting a specimen must ensure they are complying with the laws of their own state, as well as WA regulations if the specimen is being brought here for preservation.

If a client is unsure, directing them to their state’s environment or wildlife authority is the safest approach.

I cannot accept:

• Illegally obtained native fauna

• Protected species without proper documentation

• Any specimen that breaches WA biosecurity regulations

Only if the specimen is accompanied by the correct permits or falls under exemptions outlined in WA’s fauna‑handling guidance

Specimens must be stabilised as quickly as possible to prevent deterioration. The following steps help protect structural detail and minimise damage. Remember to take any reference photos you need before placing the specimen in the freezer.

• Wrap the specimen in newspaper or paper towel to absorb moisture

• Place it inside a leak‑proof plastic bag

• Seal the bag and place it straight into the freezer

• Avoid washing, grooming, or handling the specimen unnecessarily

If freezing isn’t possible, refrigerate the specimen and contact me promptly for guidance.

Fragile specimens — such as fish, crustaceans, or animals with delicate pieces or fins — should be padded carefully to prevent breakage or tearing before freezing.

In most cases, clients must deliver specimens themselves. Exceptions may be available for large or fragile items.

Not at this time. Preserving for the Future operates outside my full‑time job, and I’m unable to supervise students or apprentices safely and consistently.

Yes — I run workshops designed to teach safe, ethical, museum‑aligned specimen handling, mould‑making, and preservation techniques.

These workshops are announced through:

• My newsletter

• Social media

• The website

Subscribing is the best way to hear about new dates and openings.

Not currently. My schedule and workspace capacity do not allow for supervised placements. Workshops are the best avenue for learning with me.

Workshops at Preserving for the Future follow a clear set of safety, ethical, and legal guidelines. These are based on:

• The WA Museum’s biological‑handling standards

• Industry norms used by established Australian taxidermists, including Rest in Pieces

• My own professional experience running workshops in museum environments

These guidelines ensure that all participants work safely, respectfully, and within Western Australian regulations.

If you purchase a ticket and are unable to attend, a refund can be requested up to 21 days before the workshop date. Requests made after this time cannot be refunded, as materials, specimens, and venue costs have already been allocated.

If you miss the refund window, a credit of equal value or an upgrade to another workshop at the client’s expense can be arranged, depending on availability.

Workshops are designed for adults (18+) who have an interest in:

• ethical specimen handling

• museum‑grade preservation

• mould‑making and replica production

• biological materials in an educational context

Because these workshops involve sharp tools, chemicals, long working days, and an adult learning environment, they are not generally suitable for children or unsupervised minors.

However, participants aged 18 and under may be considered on an individual basis if:

• a parent or guardian provides written approval

• the young person demonstrates strong attention to detail

• they are mature, focused, and able to work safely in an adult environment

• they can manage long, intensive sessions

• they understand that results vary and that learning is part of the process

These workshops are hands‑on, immersive, and can be physically and mentally demanding. Not every project turns out exactly as planned — and that’s part of the learning experience. The goal is to build skills, confidence, and understanding of the preservation process while working alongside like‑minded people at all different levels of experience.

To comply with WA legislation and museum‑aligned standards:

• All specimens used in workshops must be legally obtained

• Specimens must meet the criteria under Regulation 52 (possession of dead fauna)

• No protected species may be brought without appropriate documentation

• Participants must not bring specimens that are decomposed, unsafe, or pose a biosecurity risk

All workshop specimens are either:

• Provided by me, or

• Pre‑approved by me before the workshop

This ensures compliance with DBCA expectations and maintains a safe learning environment.

Respect for Specimens

• Treat all biological material with dignity and care

• Follow all instructions regarding handling, storage, and disposal

• No unnecessary manipulation, posing, or “playing” with specimens

• Wear PPE as instructed

• Follow contamination‑control procedures

• No food or drink in the workspace

• Report any cuts, allergies, or health concerns before the workshop begins

Yes. I offer long-term preservation of small animals, organs, or biological material in fluid-filled jars. All work follows WA Museum conservation guidelines for safe handling, sealing, and display. Clients must ensure the specimen is legally permitted for preservation.

I offer gentle cleaning, degreasing, whitening, and optional articulation of bones and skeletons for display, study, or memorial purposes. This service is suitable for educational institutions, natural history displays, or clients seeking a non‑taxidermy memorial option. Bone preparation is a slow, careful process. Depending on the species and the methods required, it can take several months — and in some cases, even longer — to ensure the bones are fully cleaned, stabilised, and safe for long‑term display.

Yes. I offer stabilisation and repair of historical or family taxidermy, including reattaching loose elements, gentle cleaning, insect treatment, and preparing items for safe display. All restoration work follows WA Museum conservation principles.

Yes. I assess and treat specimens showing signs of insect activity (e.g., dermestids), and offer advice on long-term prevention. Treatment methods follow WA Museum’s Conservation and Care of Collections standards.

Yes. You’re welcome to describe your preferred pose or upload reference images. I’ll work with you to ensure the final piece feels meaningful and respectful. Custom perspex showcases can be arranged at additional cost.

Yes. Payment plans can be arranged for larger projects. A deposit is required to secure your place in the queue.

If the specimen cannot be preserved safely or respectfully, I’ll let you know immediately. No fees apply if the project cannot proceed. Keepsake alternatives may still be possible.

Yes — but only if the specimen is legally permitted for transport and properly packaged. I’ll guide you through the process once your request is reviewed.

I’ll review your details and photos, confirm viability, and provide a quote. You’ll receive a personalised timeframe and we’ll discuss pose, mounting, and any special considerations before work begins.