Cluny Breaks Ground on New Isolation Ward for Sick Animals!

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cluny Animal Trust

The icy plunge paid off! Cluny Animal Trust has officially broken ground on a new isolation ward for sick animals.

Free State, South Africa (16 July 2026) – Just days after hundreds of brave swimmers took the icy plunge to raise money for Cluny Animal Trust, the organisation already has something incredible to show for it.

Construction has begun on the new isolation ward for sick animals!

“What started as a dream is now becoming a reality. Thanks to the incredible generosity, enthusiasm and support we received through our Polar Bear Plunge, we’ve officially broken ground on Cluny’s new isolation ward!” the organisation shares.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cluny Animal Trust

The new ward will give Cluny a dedicated space to care for animals with infectious diseases, where they can recover safely while every other patient that comes through the clinic remains protected.

“This isolation ward will make an enormous difference to the animals in our care, providing a safe space to treat infectious and vulnerable patients while protecting the health of every animal that comes through our doors.”

The good news adds to an incredible few weeks for the Eastern Free State animal welfare organisation.

Weeks ago, we shared the happy news that Dr Elsa van Biljon had smashed the fundraising goal ahead of the icy cold plunge. People from across the country joined in to help raise funds in every way they could, knowing that it would all go toward creating the new space. Their efforts raised enough money to build the ward, and also helped fund the equipment needed to get it ready for the animals who will one day need it!

“Every single rand raised will help us to not just build but to also kit out our isolation ward, their generosity will have a lasting impact for animals of the eastern Free State.”

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cluny Animal Trust

Some of the biggest fundraising efforts came from the Salty Ducks, who hosted their own fundraising event in Cape Town before taking the plunge and raised R3,900.

Karen Petersen and Liela Magnus from Rosendal raised an incredible R41,762, while the team from Platberg Dieregesondheid in Harrismith added another R13,650.

First-time swimmer Shannon McCarthy from Frankfort raised R2,800 and has already promised she’ll start fundraising even earlier next year.

Cluny says every single person who got involved helped make this moment possible.

“To every person who took the plunge, sponsored, donated, volunteered, cheered us on, or supported the event in any way – this is your achievement too. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our mission and helping us build a better future for the animals of the eastern Free State.”

With construction now in full swing, Cluny will be sharing regular updates as the building starts taking shape.