Congratulations to the winner of the second annual Flinders University People’s Choice Award Cassie Hoepner for her dedication to volunteering for the Australian Marine Wildlife and Rescue Organisation (AMWRRO).

Cassie says:

“I have been a volunteer at the Australian Marine Wildlife and Rescue Organisation for the past five years. I first became a volunteer while completing my undergrad in Marine Biology at Flinders University to gain more hands-on experience.

“During this time, I have participated in many rescues and releases of local marine wildlife, particularly seals and seabirds. My role mainly consists of daily care, feeding and husbandry of in care patients and lots and lots of cleaning!

“Being able to witness the release of animals we have cared for and knowing that I am contributing to the protection of our unique marine wildlife has encouraged me to make volunteering a priority over the last few years while balancing study and work.

“AMWRRO has become like an extended family to me and the amazing work done by this volunteer-run organisation has helped the lives of thousands of injured and sick marine wildlife within South Australia as well as interstate and internationally responding when required.”

A huge congratulations to the other People’s Choice Award finalists too:

Belinda Wilson – Volunteer with Play Therapy Volunteer and the Women’s & Children’s Hospital; and

Tanvi Bhatia – Volunteer with the Red Cross, Westmead Children’s Hospital Sydney, Royal Institute for deaf and blind children, and Create.

You dedication to helping others is truly inspirational!

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, more information is available on  Career Hub. See ‘Volunteer’ under the Professional Development drop down menu.