(Sydney, September 2009) - IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is putting out the call for those who know an animal hero to nominate them for a prestigious IFAW Animal Action Award.

“There are thousands of people around this country doing remarkable things for animals every day—whether it is caring for injured wildlife, re-homing unwanted pets or vets working over and above the call of duty,” said IFAW Asia Pacific Director, Erica Martin.

“Too often these people go unnoticed, and we at IFAW want to make sure that they get a little of the recognition they deserve.”

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 IFAW Action Award for Outstanding Contribution from a Vet was presented to Dr Jan Allen for her selfless dedication to the treatment and care of animals in Samoa and the Northern Territory.

Marny Bonner and Lance Ferris were awarded for rescuing and rehabilitating hundreds of seabirds and marine wildlife through the Australian Seabird Rescue centre.

In 2008, we also celebrated the work of wildlife carer Shirley Lack with a Lifetime Dedication award as well as Young Achiever Shania Gardner who volunteers most weekends to help her grandparents and the local vet look after injured animals.

Nominating someone is easy, just write, or email 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, 6 Belmore Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010, or, email info-au@ifaw.org with IFAW Action Awards in the subject. Call 1-800-00-4329 or visit the IFAW Website for further information.

Nominations must be received by Friday 30 October 2009.