Christian, Margaret Enid (Peg)

Born Yass NSW, 1920.  Graduated BVSc, Sydney University in 1943 (12th woman graduate of that School).  Worked in practices in Sydney and Tasmania and was the first veterinarian to establish a small animal practice in the Northern Territory (Alice Springs).  Later, she set up practice in Adelaide.  She pioneered the treatment and care of Australian fauna, becoming a consultant for National Parks and zoos and significantly contributing to the development of the “Wombaroo” milk replaces for  fostering orphan Australian wildlife.  She was a member of the RSPCA for 30 years and was given Life Membership for her services to that organisation.

She remains an ambassador for Australian wildlife by maintaining a wildlife sanctuary at her home, by taking orphaned animals to schools and elderly citizens homes to talk about their care and conservation and by contributing to film and  TV documentaries on Australian wildlife.

Granted an OAM in 1984 for her pioneering work in the care of native fauna and marsupial mothercraft.  She was also awarded the Centenary Medal in January, 2001 for distinguished service to the community.  A keen Guide leader and trainer and Conservation Manager for a Guides property at Douglas Scrub south of Adelaide

A more detailed biography can be found in the
Australian Women’s Archive Project