Change Makers – Jill Robinson

"There was no going back from that," Jill recalls. "A message passed between us, and this one bear started the dream of not just the China bear rescue but the Vietnam bear rescue as well." 

This moment led Jill to found Animals Asia in 1998, an organisation dedicated to ending bear bile farming and improving animal welfare across Asia. While the practice of bear bile farming - extracting bile from the gallbladders of living bears for use in traditional medicine - is cruel and largely unknown to many, Jill's focus has always been on positive change and compassionate solutions. 

Bear bile farming is one of the most severe forms of animal abuse, with bears kept in tiny cages and subjected to painful, invasive procedures. However, Animals Asia's approach isn't just about exposing cruelty; it's about creating awareness of sustainable, humane alternatives that benefit both animals and communities. 

In Vietnam, where bear farming is now illegal thanks to government cooperation, traditional medicine practitioners are pledging to stop selling bear bile and support the development and sale of herbal alternatives. This shift is complemented by educational initiatives, with schoolchildren growing these herbal alternatives in gardens across the country. Communities receive free health checks and samples of herbal balms, demonstrating that effective remedies don't require animal suffering. 

Animals Asia's work extends beyond ending bear bile farming. The charity is committed to creating a kinder world for all animals, including cats and dogs, as well as elephants, macaques, birds, and many other species in captivity, leading initiatives for improving companion animal welfare and advocating for animal sentience and welfare.  

Their Dr. Dog and Professor Paws programs showcase the therapeutic benefits of interacting with dogs, promoting the idea that companion animals are friends, not food. The organisation also supports local groups in enhancing rescue shelters for dogs and cats, implementing trap-neuter-return projects for stray cats, and educating the public about the emotional lives of farm animals. 

At the heart of these efforts is Jill (MBE, Dr med vet hc, Hon LLD), a warm and engaging speaker whose passion for animal welfare is infectious. Under her leadership, Animals Asia has rescued close to 700 moon, brown, and sun bears, providing them with sanctuary spaces where they can heal, recover, and live out their days in peace. These sanctuaries offer pools for swimming, structures for climbing, and opportunities for foraging - allowing many bears to experience these natural behaviours for the first time in their lives. 

Now, Australian supporters have a unique opportunity to hear Jill speak in person for the first time in six years. On October 29th, Jill will be sharing her insights on animal welfare, conservation, and education at a special event at the Palace Cinema Como in Melbourne. This is your chance to learn firsthand about the incredible progress Animals Asia has made. 

"Our work is about compassion in action," Jill says. "We're not just saving individual animals; we're changing hearts and minds, creating a world where all animals are treated with respect and kindness." 

Don't miss this rare opportunity to be inspired by one of the world's leading animal welfare advocates. Jill's talks are known for their warmth, humour, and ability to motivate positive change. Whether you're a long-time supporter of Animals Asia or new to the cause, this event will be an enlightening and empowering experience. 

By attending, you'll not only gain valuable knowledge about animal welfare issues but also learn how you can make a difference. All ticket sales of $15 per person go directly towards Animals Asia's vital work, meaning your attendance directly supports their mission. 

Together, we can make a difference for every animal deserving of respect and care. Be part of this inspiring evening and join the movement for positive change. Purchase your tickets now at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-jill-robinson-from-animals-asia-registration-1002245040897?aff=MarshallWhiteArticle 

LEARN MORE - https://www.animalsasia.org/