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.

H5N1 is a strain of avian influenza that can cause illness and sudden death in wild birds. A small number of cases have recently been confirmed in Western Australia, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely. For most people, the risk is low, and simple precautions are enough.

Pets should not be allowed to eat or mouth dead wildlife. In rare cases, consuming infected raw meat can make domestic animals unwell, so please keep dogs and cats away from carcasses.

No, I cannot accept any bird that may have died from disease. If the bird was acting strangely, appeared sick, or was found near other dead birds, please do not handle it. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline: 1800 675 888.

I only accept birds that show no signs of illness, and I follow strict biosecurity protocols for all specimen intake.

Do you preserve or work on human tissue or biological materials

No. I cannot accept, handle, clean, fix, mount, articulate, or process any human tissue or biological materials — including organs, soft tissue, bone, skeletal elements, or cremains. This is required under WA Health guidance and the Human Tissue and Transplant Act 1982 (WA).

Why can’t you work on human specimens

Handling human tissue requires specific legal permissions, licensing, and infection‑control measures. Only authorised medical or anatomical facilities are permitted to process human tissue. Private practitioners cannot legally receive or work on it, even if it has been released to the patient.

Do you clean human bones or use dermestid beetles for human remains

No. Human bone is legally classified as human tissue. Cleaning, defleshing, or articulating human bone — including with dermestid beetles — is not permitted for private practitioners.

What services can you offer instead

I provide advisory‑only support, including:

• Preservation guidance

• What to request from pathology

• Display planning and vessel recommendations

• Non‑chemical supplies such as archival jars, gaskets, labels and stands

I do not handle human tissue in any form.

Can you sell formalin or other chemicals

No. I do not supply formalin, formaldehyde solutions, or any fixatives for human tissue.

My hospital said they can put my specimen in formalin. Does that mean you can work on it

No. Some hospitals may be more flexible with patients and may provide fixation at their discretion. However, hospital flexibility does not change the legal restrictions that apply to private practitioners. I still cannot accept or process the specimen.

What should I ask pathology if I want to preserve my specimen myself

Ask for:

• 10% neutral buffered formalin (24–48 hr fixation)

• The Patient Information Sheet and release form

• Written details of packaging, labelling and safe transport

I can provide wording and guidance you can give to pathology.

Can you help me display my specimen once it’s fixed

Yes — advisory only. If you are the legal recipient and managing the specimen yourself, I can help with jar selection, display planning, long‑term storage considerations and non‑chemical supplies. I cannot handle the specimen myself.

Important note

Hospital practices vary. Some pathology departments may offer more flexible assistance to patients, including fixation in formalin. However, hospital discretion does not change the legal limits that apply to private conservators. I provide advisory services only and do not handle human tissue or biological materials.

Human Tissue & Biological Materials Policy

Overview

This policy outlines the legal and professional boundaries around human tissue and biological materials. It ensures full compliance with WA Health requirements and the Human Tissue and Transplant Act 1982 (WA).

What I Cannot Do

I do not:

• Accept, handle, store, transport, fix, clean, mount, articulate, or process human tissue

• Work with human bone, skeletal elements, cremains, or any anatomical material

• Use dermestid beetles on human remains

• Provide or supply formalin, formaldehyde solutions, or any fixatives for human tissue

• Perform any hands‑on preservation or restoration involving human biological material

These restrictions apply regardless of:

• Whether the specimen has been released to the patient

• Whether the hospital has provided formalin

• Whether the tissue is fresh, fixed, dried, or skeletal

• Whether the request is for cleaning, articulation, preservation, or display

Why These Limits Exist

Handling human tissue requires specific legal permissions, licensing, and infection‑control measures. Only authorised medical or anatomical facilities are permitted to process human tissue. Private practitioners are not legally allowed to receive or work on it.

What I Can Offer

I provide advisory‑only services, including:

• General preservation guidance

• Advice on what to request from pathology

• Display planning and vessel recommendations

• Non‑chemical supplies such as archival jars, gaskets, labels and stands

These services support clients who are legally managing their own specimens.

Hospital Flexibility

Some hospitals may offer more flexible assistance to patients, including fixation in formalin. This is at the hospital’s discretion and does not change the legal restrictions that apply to private conservators. Even if a specimen is fixed, I cannot accept or process it.

Commitment to Compliance

This policy ensures that all services remain fully compliant with WA Health requirements and uphold the highest standards of safety, ethics, and professionalism.


References

• Human Tissue and Transplant Act 1982 (WA) — Western Australian legislation (full Act).

• Human Tissue and Transplant Act 1982 — consolidated text on AustLII.

• WA Department of Health — Release of Human Tissue / Patient Information — official guidance on hospital release practice.

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

Full-body taxidermy for domestic pets is not part of my standard services. In very limited circumstances, a full mount may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis, following a careful assessment of the specimen, the request, and the ethical implications.
My memorial work primarily focuses on respectful keepsakes such as resin inclusions, fur clippings, paw impressions, and other gentle options.

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.

Yes — I do accept certain specimen donations. However, before offering a specimen, please check with the most relevant organisation. Depending on the species and circumstances, the appropriate authority may be:

• Perth Zoo

• Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)

• Western Australian Museum

These organisations may require specimens for conservation, research, or official record‑keeping. If they do not need the specimen — and I do not require it — you are welcome to dispose of it naturally.

Please reach out to the Western Australian Museum or Perth Zoo first if the specimen is:

• a threatened or endangered species

• a species found outside its natural range

• showing unusual markings, colouration, or deformities

• part of a potential disease event

• banded, tagged, or collared

These organisations maintain scientific records and may request the specimen for research or conservation purposes.

Black cockatoos (Carnaby’s, Baudin’s, and Forest Red‑tailed) are threatened species, and all deaths must be officially reported. Please do not bring black cockatoos to me.

Who to contact

• Wildcare Helpline (24/7): (08) 9474 9055

• Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre:

  • Daytime: (08) 9390 2288

  • After hours: 0448 046 202

What information to provide

• exact location

• date and time found

• visible injuries

• whether the bird is banded or tagged

If safe and you feel confident

• keep pets away from the bird

• if it is on a busy road, you may gently move it off the road using a towel

• only handle the bird if advised and safe to do so

Why reporting matters

DBCA and conservation groups use these reports to track:

• habitat loss

• vehicle strike patterns

• disease outbreaks

• population changes

Your report directly supports conservation efforts.

If Perth Zoo, DBCA, the WA Museum, or relevant wildlife groups confirm they do not require the specimen — and I do not need it for preservation or educational use — you are welcome to dispose of it naturally.

If you find live injured wildlife in Western Australia, please contact a registered wildlife carer or rescue organisation as soon as possible. These groups are trained, licensed, and equipped to provide appropriate care.


Who to Contact (Perth & Western Australia)

Wildcare Helpline (24/7 Statewide)

(08) 9474 9055

General advice, triage, and referral to the nearest registered wildlife carer.

Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (Perth Hills)

(08) 9291 3900

Specialists in native wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

Native ARC (Bibra Lake)

(08) 9417 7105

Accepts a wide range of injured native animals.

WA Wildlife (formerly Native Animal Rescue, Malaga)

(08) 9249 3434

Rescue, triage, and rehabilitation for native species.

Perth Zoo (Native Wildlife Hospital)

(08) 9474 0444

For certain native species requiring specialist veterinary care. They may direct you to a registered carer depending on the situation.

DBCA – Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions

For advice on protected species, reporting, or unusual wildlife events.

Parks and Wildlife Service general line: (08) 9219 9000

Snake Removal (Perth & Surrounds)

If you encounter an injured or displaced snake, do not attempt to handle it. Contact a licensed snake catcher:

WA Snake Catcher: 0407 030 435

Perth Reptile Removal: 0400 019 990

Reptile Relocation Perth: 0407 192 973

What to Do While Waiting for Help

Keep pets and people away from the animal.

Minimise noise and movement.

Do not offer food or water.

If safe, place a towel or box nearby to reduce stress.

For birds, you may gently place a towel over them and put them in a ventilated box only if advised.

Avoid handling reptiles or large mammals.

Important Notes

Handling wildlife without proper training can cause further injury.

Some species require special permits to transport.

If you are unsure, call the Wildcare Helpline first — they will guide you.

Your safety always comes first.

Many older mounts were treated with arsenic, mercury, lead and other heavy‑metal compounds that remain active for decades and can harm people and pets through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of dust. Quoted from my reference protocols: “Arsenical soap and other arsenic containing compounds [were used in] preparation of taxidermy specimens.” Quoted from my reference protocols: “Skin contact must be avoided and disposable nitrile gloves must be worn AT ALL TIMES when handling items.”

No. I do not accept, handle, or restore vintage or antique mounts suspected of containing arsenic, mercury, or similar hazardous preservatives. These items require museum‑grade controls, specialist PPE, and hazardous‑waste disposal that are beyond what I can safely provide as a sole practitioner. I can only offer advice and referrals.

There is no reliable visual test. Professional screening such as XRF analysis is used to detect arsenic, mercury, lead and other elements and to assign a hazard category (HIGH, LOW, NEGLIGIBLE, NON‑HAZARDOUS). If you see loose white powder or crystals around seams, eyelids or ear bases, treat the object as potentially contaminated.

Immediate actions if you suspect contamination

• Isolate: place the mount in a sealed box or case and label it.

• Stabilise humidity: add conditioned silica‑gel sachets to the sealed container to reduce condensation and mould while isolated.

• Inspect visually: look closely at eyelids, ear bases and seams for white powder or crystals; if present, keep the object sealed.

• Do not disturb: do not brush, shake, or use a household vacuum — these actions can atomize toxic dust and spread contamination.

• Seek professional testing: arrange professional assessment rather than attempting DIY cleaning.

Home kits can be used as preliminary screening tools, but they have limitations: many are designed for liquids or extracts, can give false negatives/positives at low concentrations, and are not a substitute for professional XRF or laboratory confirmation. If a home test suggests contamination, treat the object as hazardous and seek professional testing.

• Minimum: disposable nitrile gloves at all times.

• If dust may be generated: P2 respirator, disposable Tyvek overalls, and eye protection.

• For liquid mercury or open mercury sources: P3 respirator with mercury vapour filter and a spill kit. All contaminated consumables and PPE must be disposed of via an authorised hazardous‑waste contractor.

Cleaning and decontamination (summary)

• Use HEPA vacuuming only for loose dust, followed by wet‑wiping with detergent and warm water.

• Place all contaminated waste and used PPE into sealed bags labelled for hazardous disposal.

• Follow strict personal hygiene: remove outer clothing, wash exposed skin with soap and warm water, and launder outer clothing separately.