Rest Easy Dirawong

Earlier last month, our team gathered to lay our beloved Lace Monitor, Dirawong, to rest.

Dirawong was much more than an ambassador animal. Hand-raised by our wildlife keepers, he became a cherished member of the The Sanctuary family, building a remarkable bond of trust with those who cared for him over many years. His loss has been deeply felt by our entire team.

To honour his life, we were privileged to be joined by the incredible Mindy Woods, a local Bundjalung woman who led a traditional smoking ceremony and shared words of remembrance as Dirawong was laid to rest.

For the Bundjalung people, the Lace Monitor—known as the Dirawong—is far more than a native reptile. In Dreaming stories, Dirawong is a powerful Creator and Guardian Spirit, a protector of Country who played an important role in shaping the landscapes of the Northern Rivers. The Lace Monitor continues to hold deep cultural significance as a symbol of connection to Country, knowledge, and ancestry.

Being able to honour Dirawong in a culturally respectful way brought comfort to our team and acknowledged the important place Lace Monitors hold within both the natural environment and the living cultural heritage of this region.

Dirawong touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of meeting him. While he will be greatly missed, his legacy will continue through the stories he helped us share—stories of wildlife, conservation, and the enduring connection between Australia's unique animals and the world's oldest living culture.

Rest easy, Dirawong. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey.