Wildlife heroes honoured with national awards

These awards were presented today as part of Animal Action Week by IFAW Asia Pacific Director, Ms Erica Martin.

Shirley Lack has been rescuing and caring for native wildlife for 30 years and during this time has helped in the rescue and rehabilitation of many native animals, from common to endangered species.  She has a particular interest and expertise in wombat care and has been a mentor to a number of carers who need her diligent and experienced guidance.

“These awards celebrate the efforts of remarkable people who give their time, and often their own money, to improve the lives of animals. Shirley’s selfless dedication to the care of animals is inspirational.  It is vital that people like Shirley are recognised as the real champions for animals,” Ms Martin said.

Since she could walk, Shania Gardner has been helping at her grandparents’ wildlife sanctuary at their home on the south coast of NSW. Shania, better known as ‘Critter Girl’ to her friends, goes to the sanctuary most weekends and helps with the care of the animals, from feeding and cleaning out cages to holding the animals whilst they are being treated by the local vet.

“IFAW is delighted to present Shania Gardner with the Young Achievers Award for her fabulous work in the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife. Shania plays a vital role in saving the lives of wildlife that would otherwise have not survived. She is a pretty amazing young girl,” Ms Martin said.

Shania is the granddaughter of Marie and Lou Gardner, wildlife carers who have devoted their lives to the rescue and care of wildlife - so it is little wonder Shania has followed in their footsteps.

Shirley and Shania are two out of six animal heroes across Australia to receive IFAW accolades this year.

The other winners are Marny Bonner and the late Lance Ferris, founders of Australian Seabird Rescue, with the Action Award for Wildlife Rescue and Dr Jan Allen with the Action Award for Outstanding Contribution from a Vet. The other winners will be announced next week.

“We hope that by highlighting some of these exceptional people more Australians will acknowledge and respect the important part that animals play in our global world,” Ms Martin said.

IFAW’s Animal Action Week is in its sixteenth year and takes place in 16 countries around the world.  More than 1000 schools in Australia will be taking part this year, using specially designed IFAW education materials. Visit www.animalactionweek.com.au for further information.
 

For media-related inquiries, contact:
Kerry Glenn, IFAW Asia Pacific Communications Officer
Tel: +61 9288 4993
Mobile: 0437 414 329
Email: kglenn@ifaw.org