When Jaffa Came to Live With Us
When Jaffa first came to live at Amaris, she didn’t come alone.
Tucked close beside her were two little girls, Jaidee and Jola—three tiny joeys, suddenly finding themselves in a world that felt very different from the one they knew.
Everything was unfamiliar.
The milk didn’t taste quite the same as their roo mumma’s.
The sounds were strange—no bush winds whispering through trees, no familiar night calls.
The smells were new, and the light felt brighter than the soft shadows of the bush.
Even their new pouches didn’t smell like Mummy.
For a joey, that’s a lot to take in.
Feeling Safe Takes Time
When orphaned kangaroo joeys arrive in care, they’re often scared—not because they’re naughty or grumpy, but because they’ve lost everything that once made them feel safe. Their world has changed suddenly, and they don’t yet know that they are loved again.
As carers, we know that the most important thing we can give them isn’t just food or warmth—it’s love and patience.
Patience when they fuss with their feeds.
Patience when they won’t settle.
Patience when they cling tightly, unsure whether it’s safe to let go.
Slowly, gently, we help them learn that this new place can be safe too.
And they do learn.
Three Orphaned Joeys, One Big Adjustment
Jaffa, Jaidee and Jola adjusted together, side by side. Having each other made all the difference. They could snuggle close, feel familiar heartbeats, and take comfort in knowing they weren’t alone.
Each rescued roo brings their own story, their own worries, and their own way of coping. Together, they form a mob of friendship, comfort, and shared healing. It’s a beautiful thing to watch.
Jaffa Didn’t Like Sleeping Alone
Jaffa, we quickly learned, was not a fan of being by herself.
Each joey had her own bed, warm and cosy, just as it should be. But Jaffa had other plans.
Many mornings, I’d walk in expecting to see three joeys tucked into their own pouches—only to find Jaffa missing.
Then I’d look closer.
There she’d be…
curled up in bed with one of the girls, fast asleep.
Sometimes it was Jaidee.
Sometimes Jola.
Always snug.
Always peaceful.
Jaffa simply needed that extra closeness. That quiet reassurance. That reminder that family was still right there beside her.
And really, who could blame her?
More Than Just Caring—Preparing for the Bush
Rehabilitating kangaroos isn’t just about helping them grow big and strong. It’s about raising them kangaroo‑wise—so one day, they can return safely to the bush where they belong.
That means learning to be part of a mob.
Learning confidence.
Learning independence: when they’re ready.
For now, though, Jaffa is still small. Still learning. Still finding her way.
And for this part of her journey, it’s okay to need her sisters close.
A Story of Love and Belonging
Behind the scenes of Jaffa Roo, this is where her story begins—not with bravery or big adventures, but with adjustment, comfort, and quiet love.
Jaffa didn’t just find a place to live at Amaris.
She found safety.
She found patience.
She found family—both old and new.
And in time, when she’s ready, these early days will help her grow into a strong, confident roo ready for life back in the bush.
But for now, she sleeps best just where she belongs,
snuggled close to those she loves.
Talk About It Together
How do you think Jaffa felt when everything around her was new and different?
Why do you think it helped Jaffa to have her sisters with her?
Have you ever felt better because someone you love stayed close to you?
Try this Together
“Pouch of Comfort” Collage
You need: Paper, crayons, scrap fabric or tissue paper (optional), glue (optional)
Draw a big pouch shape on paper.
Let your child add “comfort things” inside the pouch (a heart, warm blanket, a tiny bottle).
Ask: “What would help Jaffa feel safe in her new home?”
Bonus: Name the pouch: “Jaffa’s Safe Pouch.”