BirdLife Tasmania Convenor, Dr Eric Woehler was today awarded an OAM for his ‘services to bird ecology’.
Dr Woehler said he was humbled and honoured by his award, describing the medal as ‘something completely unexpected’.
Since returning from the USA in 1995 where he completed his doctorate, Dr Woehler has been an adjunct with the University of Tasmania, teaching undergraduate students and supervising higher-degree research students in a voluntary capacity.
He has been very active in field research on seabirds and shorebirds, with his research directed towards conservation and the adoption of best-practice management practices.
The CEO of BirdLife Australia, Paul Sullivan welcomed the award.
“A renowned scientist and passionate volunteer, Eric has led the conservation of Tasmania’s birds for decades; and remains a strong public advocate for the protection of our natural world,” Sullivan said.
With much of his research on seabirds of the Southern Ocean and around Tasmania over the last 40 years, Dr Barry Baker, Chair of the Australasian Seabird Group noted that: “Eric has undertaken pivotal long-term research on Australian shorebirds and seabirds that has contributed directly toward inventories and assessment of breeding population trends.”
“His research studies have been widely used by government agencies and incorporated into seabird conservation strategic plans, supporting on-ground conservation efforts, including the selection of high-seas Marine Protected Areas”.
Dr Woehler was awarded Life Membership of BirdLife Tasmania at the organisation’s 50th AGM earlier this year.
