‘Protector of Nature’s Protectors’ wins the 2014 Banksia International Award.
Announcement posted by Banksia Foundation 28 Oct 2014
The Banksia Foundation Board is proud to announce the 2014 Banksia International Award is to be presented to Sean Willmore. Sean is the President of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and Founder and Managing Director of the IRF’s charity arm The Thin Green Line Foundation. This is only the second time in Banksia’s 26 year history that we have recognised an Australian with this International accolade.
Sean is far more than a truly inspiring Australia. His inspiration is forged from Sean’s unwavering vision and leadership, entwined with his infectious drive and passion to combat a sometimes-unconceivable real world problem, the human toll of poaching. Sean’s determination has meant despite economic, political and geographical boundaries he has leapt unthinkable hurdles and connected the unlikeliest of organisations, NGO’s, corporates, governments and grass root supporters to tackle this issue at its coal face and support park rangers and their families.
Sean will be presented with the 2014 Banksia International Award at the Banksia Awards Luncheon Presentation SD2014, which will take place in Sydney on the 11th November at the Museum of Contemporary Arts.
The Banksia Board would like to congratulate Sean Willmore, and while we recognise the impact that Sean is having, we understand there is much more still to be done. We know that every Australian will be inspired by and support Sean in his quest to ‘Protect Nature’s Protectors’.
It is important to recognise and acknowledge that Australian’s are playing a vital role in the global arena. The Banksia Foundation is pleased that we were able to select an Australian who is a real leader in contributing to enhance our environment for future generations
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About Sean Willmore:
Sean Willmore is a former Australian Park Ranger (11 years) and now founder and Managing Director of the Thin Green Line Foundation, and the current President of the International Rangers Federation (IRF). While undertaking his work Sean has travelled to and worked with rangers in over 50 countries on 6 continents where he has been ambushed, held a gunpoint, charged by elephants and avoided militias. His efforts to bring attention to the dangerous work undertaken by these warriors has won him international acclaim. Using profits from documentary The Thin Green Line, Sean started The Thin Green Line Foundation (TTGLF). His continual inspiration is from the men and women, the park rangers worldwide, that he represents and who do this front-line work on a daily basis.
About The Banksia Foundation:
The Banksia Foundation is a national not-for-profit organisation, overseen by a national Board of Management, which promotes environmental excellence and sustainability through its Awards program and other associated initiatives. The Banksia Environmental Foundation was founded in 1989 by a diverse group of 44 Australians who shared a common goal to do more to support and recognise members of the community for their positive contribution to the environment. More information about the Foundation or the Awards can be obtained from www.banksiafdn.com.
About Qantas, the sponsor of the Banksia International Award:
Qantas is once again the proud sponsor of the Banksia International Award. In supporting this award we are delighted to say that environmental sustainability is a guiding principle for today’s Qantas Group – it’s about our commitment to innovation, our drive to build a more competitive business and our role in the Australian community. Environmental Sustainability is ultimately a global challenge, so it continues to be so important to recognise international best practice.
About SD2014
Banksia Foundation and Sustainable Business Australia are presenting the inaugural SD2014, a multifaceted business focused, community engaged Sustainability Event, which also brings the national Banksia Sustainability Awards to Sydney. In an Australian first, SD2014 showcases insights from more than 50 Australian organisations across business, community and government, in TED style rapid-fire sustainability narratives from the 2014 Banksia Award finalists. Sydney’s Lord Mayor, Clover Moore will welcome SD2014 to Sydney will share her plans for the City of Sydney to lead Australia’s sustainable growth. SD2014 concludes with celebratory lunch announcing the winners of the 26th Banksia Sustainability Awards including: The Australian Environment Minister's Award for a Cleaner Environment, The Richard Pratt Banksia CEO Award, the winner of the Banksia International Award.