Man’s best friend loses their best friend

Homeless animals, waifs and strays recently lost their best friend and defender with the passing of Julie Harbin-McKay from cancer on April 16.

Best known as owner operator of Keira Animal Shelter Trust, named after her dingo-shepherd friend, Julie fully endorsed any measure related to the betterment of the lives of animals of all creeds, though her favourites were old dogs, the ones whose families found they needed too much care. Julie loved and cared for them until they passed with dignity in her care – something she did until the day she died.

Julie began the shelter from her home in Waipu though it soon became apparent that a place for animal rescue in Northland was desperately needed. Negotiating a peppercorn lease with Carter Holt Harvey, the animal shelter on the Brynderwyns came to life, and for around 25 years she saved thousands of animals. When the lease expired she moved, lock, stock and barrel to Whakapirau.

The shelter grew to sometimes epic numbers, but one thing that always stayed the same was Julie’s commitment to saving and rehoming the animals no one wanted. When Julie lost her beloved Keira, she vowed that she would carry on Keira’s legacy for as long as she could and that was one promise she never broke.

While animals and their welfare was a labour of love, Julie largely managed her own fundraising activities, sought the occasional grant and was ever grateful for the goodwill, donations and assistance of like-minded people from all over the country.

Julie arrived in New Zealand to help look after her mother due to illness, not long after the Ash Wednesday fires in Australia in 1983, where she saved countless numbers of animals from fire. Her service to animals in New Zealand covered almost 35 years and though her heart belonged in the outback of Australia, her dedication to the animals of this country never faltered, say friends and followers.

It is with a heavy heart that Trust members and supporters farewell Julie, who had been unwell for some time after being diagnosed with cancer at Christmas.

Those close to her say she wasn’t always an easy person to get along with but one thing that never changed was her love, compassion, and dedication towards her animals.

§ A memorial service will be held for Julie once Covid-19 restrictions allow. Friends and supporters will be advised.

A tireless animal advocate, Julie loved those that needed palliative care until they passed with dignity. PHOTO/SUPPLIED