Wildlife warrior a friend to all

Denise Garratt was a tireless worker for wildlife in the community.

By PETER DOUGLAS

THE Yarra Ranges and wider communities are remembering the life of Denise Garratt, who is widely known and respected among both local and international wildlife groups.
Based in Gruyere, Denise was a much-loved and highly respected friend, community member and wildlife warrior.
Sadly, after a short illness, Denise Garratt passed away on Friday, 25 September.
Denise was a dedicated volunteer who gave her time to help orphaned and injured wildlife throughout large areas of Australia.
Some of her many achievements are as follows:
* Founder and president of Help for Wildlife;
* Founding member of the RSPCA (Victoria) Wildlife Branch;
* Founder of Wildlife Care Network (now Wildlife Victoria);
* Founder and secretary of Wildlife Help on Mornington Peninsula;
* Member of Yarra Ranges Animal Welfare Working Group;
* Wildlife carer;
* An active member in so many wildlife committees throughout Victoria and in most other states;
* Held training courses for wildlife carers; and
* Nominated for the Yarra Ranges Shire 2013 Australia Day Awards.
Denise was loved and respected in so many wildlife support groups.
For many years, Denise organised wildlife speakers, conducted lectures and training courses for volunteer wildlife carers at various venues such as the Melbourne Zoo, as well as the Healesville Sanctuary.