What is World Lewis Day?World Lewis Day, observed November 26, serves to raise awareness about the hundreds of koalas who have passed or have been displaced due to the recent Australian bushfires, and encourages people to donate to charity groups working to help them in anyway they can.
World Lewis Day timeline
The Australian Koala Foundation is founded to diminish the dangers to the survival of koalas and raise awareness to protect endangered fauna and flora.
Following a prolonged drought, deadly bushfires spark in Australia.
Lewis the koala dies one week after getting rescued due to severe burns.
The country's most devastating bushfire season on record gradually comes to an end.
How to Observe World Lewis Day
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Donate to the Australian Koala Foundation
The AKF is a non-profit and non-government organization dedicated to the conservation and effective management of the koala and its habitat. Visit their site to figure out how you can help make a difference.
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Plant eucalyptus
If you live in a koala inhabited area, plant eucalyptus in your yard to add another source of food. The recent Australian fires not only burned down the homes of hundreds of koalas, but also the leaves they need to survive. Planting gum trees gives your local koalas a fighting chance.
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Volunteer
Hundreds of koalas are still displaced due to the recent Australian bushfire. If you live in Australia, volunteer to help locate the furry marsupials and bring them to the nearest koala hospital.
Why World Lewis Day is Important
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It raises awareness
Prior to the viral video, very few people outside of Australia were aware of the roaring bushfires harming not only koalas, but also other wildlife and people. Because of Lewis, thousands are rushing to donate to the families and koalas who have lost their homes due to the devastating occurrence.
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It encourages people to volunteer
People living near Australia's recent fire zone are rushing to volunteer. Lewis' rescue, and his fight in the hospital, brought to light just how dangerous the conditions are for the hundreds of other koalas in need of help.
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It acknowledges a beautiful act of courage
Toni Doherty, the Australian grandmother seen in the viral video, used the shirt off her back in order to rescue Lewis, who had climbed up a tree to escape the flames. Toni put herself in danger and risked her own life in order to save the life of a small creature. She has inspired countless people to keep an eye out for local wildlife who may be in need of a rescue of their own.
World Lewis Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 26 | Saturday |
| 2023 | November 26 | Sunday |
| 2024 | November 26 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | November 26 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | November 26 | Thursday |
