ANIMAL HEROES WANTED

(Sydney, September 2008) - IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is searching for animal lovers across Australia to participate in the prestigious IFAW Action Awards. 

Friends, relatives or colleagues of animal heroes who have accomplished outstanding work with wildlife or domestic animals are encouraged to come forward and nominate individuals for an award. 

The awards will be presented during IFAW’s 16th Annual Action Week, which will be held from 4-10 October 2008.

 “Australia is blessed with exceptional people who dedicate their time, and often money, to protecting our animals. We want to recognise the efforts of these unsung animal heroes,” said IFAW Asia Pacific Director, Erica Martin.

 “Whether someone has set up an animal sanctuary, works to re-home unwanted pets or campaigns tirelessly to raise awareness of animal welfare, we want to honour these special people through the IFAW Action Awards,” Ms Martin said.

 In 2007, Belridge Senior High Schools’ ‘Rock Eisteddfod Team’ received the Young Achievers Award for their contribution to raising awareness of the threats to whales through their creative anti-whaling performance entitled ‘Giants of the Sea’.

 The IFAW Action Award for Outstanding Contribution from a Vet was presented to Dr John Butler, who has been caring for native wildlife for almost 30 years and during this time has helped in the rescue and rehabilitation of many native animals, from common to endangered species.

 Other awards were presented for Animal Welfare in the Community, Animal Welfare Awareness and Animal Welfare and Education.

 Nominating someone is easy, just write to IFAW and tell us about your nominee’s work with animals, along with addresses and daytime phone numbers for both you and the person you have nominated.

 You can mail your nomination letter to IFAW Action Awards, 8 Belmore Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, or, email info-au@ifaw.org with IFAW Action Awards in the subject.

 Nominations must be received by 5pm on Friday 26 September 2008.