A TRIGG woman affectionately known as the “the cat lady” has dedicated her estate to helping animals in need.
The 85-year-woman, well-known for her generosity and love of animals, bequeathed both her properties on Chrysostom Street to the RSPCA and Shenton Park Cat Haven.
The properties, just 300m from the beach, went under the hammer on March 31, fetching $1.4 million for the organisations.
RSPCA spokesman Tim Mayne said everyone involved was thrilled with the result.
“The house sold to a gentleman who made a spur of the moment decision to buy the property at Trigg,” Mr Mayne said.
“The auction lasted less than 30 minutes and we are thrilled – this can only be described as the ultimate act of kindness towards animals.”
Mr Mayne said the RSPCA had also helped to re-home one of the woman’s animals – her beloved dog – although she did also have cats.
“The woman had no children and dedicated her life to looking after animals and was very active in animal welfare organisations,” he said.
Mr Mayne said people normally bequeathed the RSPCA for a range of reasons and while this particular one was quite large, the organisation was honoured to receive any amount.
“We appreciate all bequests – it is the thought not the amount that is important,” he said.
“Being informed in advance that we will be benefiting from a will helps us plan for the future knowing that funds will be available when needed and enables us to express our thanks and show our appreciation to that person while they are alive.
“Some have often suffered themselves and identify with the helplessness of animals who are suffering.
“Helping alleviate animal suffering helps them come to terms with their own suffering.
“Others have outlived relatives and friends or never had children of their own, or want to ensure the future wellbeing of their pets through the Pet Bequest Program.”
Anyone interested in the program can visit rspcawa.asn.au.
The Cat Haven in Shenton Park can move forward with plans to redevelop its site on Lemnos Street.
Cat Haven spokesman David Settelmaiersaid the project was at an “ideas” stage.
“We know what we would like but we want to get it right because we’ll be sitting on that site for the next 30 or 40 years,” Mr Settelmaier said
“We want to provide the best possible facilities that we can.”