Supplied: Luisa Novak I will always speak up and step in when I see animals being mistreated - even if the offender is twice my size. I just can't bear to see harm inflicted on innocent creatures.
That's why I am deeply saddened to live in a country with the highest mammal extinction rate in the world. These beautiful animals have done nothing to deserve this, and they can't fight to change it themselves. So I see it as my role to do it for them.
This deep-rooted love for animals and the natural world is a core part of who I am. It's guided the actions I've taken my entire life. That's what moved me to leave a generous percentage of my estate to AWC in my Will. I trust they will do the right thing and continue to protect our wildlife when I no longer can.
This decision is more than a donation, it is an act of hope. I believe that AWC is making a real difference to protect our wildlife and restore our natural places. I'm proud of the accomplishments that I've seen them achieve with my current donations, and I want them to keep getting on with the work whether I'm here or not.
Reflecting on the joys of my youth, riding bikes in the streets and exploring the bush, I am confronted with the stark reality of our diminishing natural world. The thought of future generations being deprived of these experiences, of never knowing the vibrancy and beauty of the natural world is too sad to contemplate.
Something must be done. I believe that AWC is making a difference to restore Australia to resemble the country I grew up in, and I'm proud to stand beside them.
The natural world needs us more than anything and anyone right now. I encourage everyone to shoulder this responsibility with me. By leaving a gift in your Will to AWC, you can be a protector for Australian animals and the land which is their rightful home.
VALE RODNEY MARGARET VAN PROCTOR: BUSH WARRIOR
Supplied: Jenny Van Proctor Rodney led a remarkable and busy life. She created lush bush gardens in Sydney and Perth, hosted joyful gatherings, and worked into her 90s to improve the world. She had a gift for making friends from all over.
She worked professionally typing print into braille, with a unique approach that enabled many young blind people to continue to university, due to her incredible speed and intelligent creation of contractions to make braille books lighter. One recipient of her texts acknowledged what a huge difference she and husband John made to him living an independent life.
Rodney is remembered as a tireless volunteer, wildlife warrior, chef, avid reader, artist, beautiful embroiderer, knitter, jazz lover and supporter of many worthy environmental causes including AWC. Rodney's love of native plants, bush habitat and animals inspired her dedication and generosity. She so appreciated being able to witness the difference AWC is making at Mornington and Scotia wildlife sanctuaries.
Rodney was much loved and appreciated. Truly a life well lived. Rest in Peace, Rodney Margaret Van Proctor.
A HEARTFELT THANKYOU
The following supporters gave the ultimate gift by supporting nature through their Wills in 2024. Their legacy will live on in Australia's wildlife and landscapes, and their names will be woven into AWC's story forever. Vale.
John Frederick Bishop
Charmian Boulter
Jasmine Cicely Brunner
Reginald Burns
Eric James Douglas
Evelyn Joan Evans
Annette May Holland
Alan Geoffrey Lipshut
Jill McFarlane
Lois Elizabeth Oliver
Philippa Anne Poole
Ian Graham Stocks
Julia Awdry Taylor
Anyone can leave a gift in their Will
