For a display of true bravery in rescuing an animal.

Carol Biddulph (Gold) Many may remember when an Emperor Penguin found himself on Western Australia’s shores late last year – a rare sight indeed. Carol and Graham Biddulph stepped in to care for the penguin — affectionately known as Gus. Carol hand-fed Gus, kept his enclosure cool, and gave him the best possible care. Thanks to her dedication, Gus was later released into the wild to begin his long journey home.
Merome Darvill and Beth Brideson (Gold)  On Boxing Day, sisters Merome and Beth were at the beach in Gracetown when rangers called for help to catch a dog. The dog was chasing a kangaroo, who had begun swimming out to the sea in distress. He had swum 150 metres out to sea by the time the sisters got to him. More concerned about helping the kangaroo than catching the dog, with wetsuits on and boards in hand, the sisters paddled out to the roo who had swum 150 metres out by then and spent 45 minutes guiding him safely back to shore. Their bravery saved a life that day.
FAWNA Inc. (Gold)  When heavy rains disrupted breeding cycles in the Vasse-Wonnerup wetlands, hundreds of young cygnets were left behind. FAWNA Inc. stepped in, launching a rescue effort of massive scale — dawn until dusk, every day. In total, 250 cygnets were saved and thrived in the safety of Kooljak Castle, a swan house made possible through the generous donation of $45k by founding member Mary “Mac” Craigie. An extraordinary achievement.
Callum Ashenhurst (Bronze) Callum is a dedicated wildlife rescuer, working with WA Wildlife and WA Seabird Rescue. Earlier this year, he bravely waded through mud and water at Lake Herdsman to save a paralysed spoonbill struggling to survive. Thanks to his quick action, the bird received urgent vet care. Callum’s courage and compassion shine through his volunteer efforts.

Meet the other Animal Welfare Award winners