SPCA's National Rescue Unit Member Wins Assisi Award 2018

Each year, the New Zealand Companion Animal Council (NZCAC) presents the Assisi Awards in "recognition of outstanding service to animals" to individuals who have contributed to the welfare of animals, whether in New Zealand or internationally. The awards, named in honour of the Patron Saint of Animals, St Francis of Assisi, are an acknowledgement by the NZCAC of the achievements of those whose goals echo the principles of excellence in animal welfare.

Gina Kemp, Technical Rescue Coordinator with SPCA's National Rescue Unit (NRU, leads a group of internationally qualified emergency response volunteers who provide a technical rescue service for trapped animals. NRU was founded in 1995 and is epitomised by the rescue of over 70 animals animals from the red zone immediately following the 2011 Christchurch earthquake and over 900 animals during the 2017 Edgecumbe flooding.

Gina also organises and runs training sessions with professional organisations and has obtained Rescue3 Animal Rescue Technician Instructor Status. Since taking on her role three years ago Gina has built an outstanding team of volunteers whose services have received national recognition. In 2017 Gina clocked up over 600 hours of volunteer service in addition to her 40+ hours a week job as an SPCA Inspector in Wellington.

Barry Helem, NZCAC Chair says “It is very gratifying to see these two examples of many years of self-sacrifice and dedication in service to animals recognised. The NZCAC Board is delighted to acknowledge both Gina and Pam as very worthy recipients of these prestigious awards.”

SPCA would like to congratulate Gina on winning the 2018 Assisi Award.