Audrey Koosmen, a name synonymous with wildlife conservation in Australia, passed away on 8 December 2024. Her loss is a profound one, leaving a void in the hearts of countless individuals who admired her unwavering dedication to protecting our native fauna.

Born and raised in rural New South Wales, Audrey’s connection to the natural world began at a tender age. Growing up on a farm, she developed a deep-rooted empathy for animals, a quality that would shape her life’s work. Her passion for wildlife was ignited by the challenges faced by injured and orphaned animals in her local area.

Recognising the need for specialised care, Audrey founded the Native Animal Trust Fund Inc in 1978, the first volunteer-run wildlife rescue group in New South Wales. The organisation, now operating as Hunter Wildlife Rescue, has since grown into a vital resource for wildlife rehabilitation in the region, providing expert care to countless animals each year. Under Audrey’s guidance, Hunter Wildlife Rescue has become a beacon of hope for injured and orphaned wildlife, offering specialised care and rehabilitation services.

Beyond her role at Hunter Wildlife Rescue, Audrey was a tireless advocate for wildlife conservation on a broader scale. She was well known and respected by Governments, vets, academia and the wildlife conservation community across Australia. She participated in many review panels to raise standards for wildlife rehabilitation and advocate for environmental protection. As the Chair of the NSW Wildlife Council, she played a pivotal role in shaping wildlife policy and influencing government decisions. Her expertise and passion were invaluable in addressing issues such as habitat loss, climate change, and the impact of human activities on wildlife.

Audrey’s contributions to wildlife conservation extended far beyond her formal roles. She was a tireless volunteer, dedicating countless hours to rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals. Her unwavering commitment to the cause inspired countless others to join the fight for wildlife. She was a mentor to many, sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring conservationists.

In June 2024, her contribution to Australian wildlife was recognised when she was awarded the Order Of Australia Medal for her outstanding services to animal welfare.

One of Audrey’s most significant legacies is her emphasis on education and community engagement. She understood that empowering individuals to take action for wildlife was crucial to long-term conservation success. Through Hunter Wildlife Rescue and other initiatives, she worked to raise awareness about the challenges faced by wildlife and encouraged people to become involved in conservation efforts.

Audrey’s passing marks the end of an era, but her spirit and the work she initiated will continue to inspire future generations. Her dedication to wildlife conservation has left an enduring impact on Australia’s natural heritage. The loss has been felt greatly through the organisation and Hunter Wildlife Rescue will continue to honour her memory through the great work she started and working to protect the animals she loved so dearly.

In the words of Audrey herself, “Every life matters, no matter how small.” Let us strive to live up to her ideals and ensure that her vision of a world where wildlife thrives continues to inspire us all.