Rainforest Rescue was started in 1999 with the initial focus to raise funds for rainforest conservation projects in the Big Scrub region of northern NSW.

On 25 March 1999 Rainforest Rescue was incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered with the Australian government, providing maximum accountability to our supporters. The principal objective for which the Company was formed is the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

Dr. Tony Parkes AO was instrumental in the establishment of Rainforest Rescue, was the Chair of Rainforest Rescue’s Board for eight years, and has continued his focus on protecting and restoring rainforest. Dr. Tony Parkes was also the Founder of Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy (previously Big Scrub Land Care), and was their president for 30 years.

As Rainforest Rescue evolved, the scope of its work expanded, initially to rainforests across Australia and subsequently internationally. Since 1999, a key focus of our work has been the conservation and restoration of the lowland Daintree rainforest – an internationally important, ancient, and unique area that needs protection.

Much of our early work in the Daintree was in partnership with the Daintree Rainforest Foundation which merged with Rainforest Rescue in 2009. However, we have not forgotten our heritage and have funded and undertaken a wide range of rainforest conservation projects in the Big Scrub region.

Rainforest Rescue is listed on the Australian government’s Register of Environmental Organisations which provides us with tax-deductible gift recipient status, enabling Australian residents to make tax-deductible donations to the organisation.

Rainforest Rescue is registered with the Australian Charities & Not-for-profits Commission and is a Member of the Fundraising Institute of Australia.

For up-to-date figures on properties rescued and trees planted, visit our homepage.

To view a list of Properties Rescued so far, click here.