Flinders University alumni have been recognised for considerable contributions in their respective fields at recent award ceremonies. Three University graduates who have given their time, expertise and passion on behalf of our precious natural environment were winners in the SA Environment Awards.
Pam Catcheside (DipEd ’78) was recognised with the Lifetime Achiever Award, for her sustained championship of the environment movement, pioneering organisations, approaches and concepts that are now taken for granted.
A Commendation for Conservation in the Green Adelaide’s Pelzer Prize was awarded to Gerry Butler (BSc ’80), for his leadership in conservation. The award was named in honour of Adelaide’s first city gardener – August Wilhelm Pelzer.
Nature Conservation Society Campaigner Rhys Abbott (Biodiversity and Conservation ’22, BEdSt ’19, BSc ’22) was awarded the Leif Justham Young Achiever Award for his efforts to contribute to the protection of South Australia’s nature places. The award is named in honour of Leif Justham, an inspiring young South Australian who passionately worked to raise awareness of the impact of our country’s dependence on fossil fuels affecting the future of our planet.
A further two Flinders University graduates were named among InDaily’s 40 Under 40 of 2023, recognising South Australia’s latest crop of young leaders.
David Wild (MSW ’15), Chief Executive of Specialised Assistance School for Youth, was awarded for his work to help disengaged students reignite their schooling through holistic learning. Since he joined, the organisation has grown to $10 million and more than 200 students, of which 92 per cent have gone into work or further studies. “I feel like I’m making positive difference, challenging conventional thinking,” David says.
Also on the list was Kirsty Stark (DipLang ’07, BCreatArts(Hons) ’09), who is Producer and Founder of Epic Films & CrewHQ. The Emmy Award-winning TV Producer aims to transform the hiring process in the film and TV industries as well as create sustainable career pathways for freelancers. “My most recent production, First Day, had 16 female heads of department, and several women receiving their first long-form credits in their roles, creating future work opportunities,” she says.