Outstanding Park Volunteers Recognised

To celebrate International Volunteer Day, a very special award ceremony was held on 5 December 2017 to publicly thank Parks and Wildlife Service volunteers for their hard work, dedication and commitment to protecting the natural environment of Western Australia. Lee Hollingsworth, Volunteer Program Coordinator for WA Parks & Wildlife Service said, “The awards are an opportunity for Parks and Wildlife Service to thank its volunteers for the important roles they play in the community across a variety of areas, and the selfless work they contribute towards protecting our natural environment.

“Last year, more than 5400 Parks and Wildlife Service volunteers contributed more than 720,000 hours to volunteer projects around the State – a record effort – congratulations go to these exceptional volunteers for standing out”.

Eddie Seaman receiving award from Environment Minister Stephen Dawson

The prestigious 2017 Volunteer of the Year honour was awarded to Eddie Seaman of Mandurah in recognition for his work in Stirling Range National Park.

In addition to Eddie’s award, five Outstanding Service awards and eight Long Service Awards for over 20 years voluntary work were also presented along with a Community Group Award and Western Shield Volunteer Award.

Other winners included:

Outstanding Service

• Errol Thoomes – Science and Conservation Division, Goldfields Region
• Gary Schwab – William Bay National Park Association
• Ce Kealley – The Bibbulmun Track Foundation
• Ken Stranger – Perth Observatory Volunteer Group
• Peter Muirden – Lake McLarty Hydrology Strategy

Long Service awards for 20+ years and still active

• Jackie Hamilton – Wildlife Rehabilitator, Native Animal Rescue, Malaga
• Deidre Patterson – Registered Wildlife Rehabilitator
• Mavis Sowry – More than 16 different projects over the years
• Wendy Jarman – Registered Wildlife Rehabilitator
• Jean and Fred Hort – WA Herbarium, Rare Flora and Priority Species
• Pat Johns – Albany Herbarium
• Christine Rafferty – Registered Wildlife Rehabilitator
• Doreen McAllan – Wildlife Rehabilitator, Wildcare Helpline and various fauna recovery projects

2017 Community Group Award
WA Seabird Rescue

2017 Western Shield Volunteer Award
Jade Kelly – Western Shield and related programs

WA Seabird Rescue President Halina Burmej accepts award from Minister Stephen Dawson

Jade Kelly receiving award from Minister Stephen Dawson

Congratulations to all the recipients on your valuable contribution to our WA parks. More information on volunteering opportunities can be found here