Jirrahlinga founder in line for award

THE founder of a well-known animal sanctuary in Barwon Heads is in the running to be recognised for her years of service in a statewide volunteering award.

Last week, Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary’s Tehree Gordon was one of five people announced as finalists in the Lifetime Achievement category in the Volunteering Victoria 2017 State Awards.

The award is for paid or unpaid leaders or managers of volunteers for longstanding, distinguished and meritorious service to the volunteering sector in a leadership role over at least seven years.

Situated on five acres of land on the northern edge of Barwon Heads, Mrs Gordon established Jirrahlinga more than 30 years ago as a haven for injured wildlife.

Mrs Gordon is one of 23 finalists across six categories (the others are Innovation, Excellence, Inclusion, Thought Leadership and Employee Volunteering) in this year’s awards.

“This is the third year of our State Awards and the response has been amazing,” Volunteering Victoria acting chief executive officer Roz Wollmering said.

“Nominations were of a high calibre, highlighting remarkable leadership and stewardship of volunteering, diverse volunteering programs and innovative volunteer involving organisations across the state.

“Showcasing excellence in Victoria’s volunteering sector, we’re proud to share this list of finalists.”

The Volunteering Victoria State Awards aim to embrace and showcase the work of leaders and managers of volunteers, programs and volunteer involving organisations.

While numerous events exist to recognise the outstanding achievements of individual volunteers, the awards aim to showcase the extraordinary infrastructure in our state that makes volunteering possible.

Nominations were considered by a panel of volunteering sector judges, with winners to be announced on November 22 at a ceremony at Parliament House.