By BEN CAMERON
A SELF confessed bossy boots’ dedication to the protection of animals has earned her one of the country’s highest gongs.
Beaconsfield’s Vivienne Williams was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the welfare and protection of animals, and to the community.
A former school teacher, Mrs Williams became an “animal advocate” post retirement in 1999.
She is now a Cat Protection Society life-member, was president of the Australian Animal Protection Society and has been a Native Wildlife Carer since 1986.
“I’ve always had an empathy for animals,” she said.
“When I was young I was always bringing home injured animals, injured birds.
“My mother was a horse person, she was also very caring, so I got those genes.”
Ms Williams prides herself on getting stuff done.
“As a former school teacher I’m a bit of a bossy boots. If I want something changed, I get it changed,” she said.
“I’ve had no mentor, I’ve worked it out myself.”
She was genuinely shocked when first notified about the award back in October.
“I couldn’t believe it, I was a bit overwhelmed,” she said. “It was very humbling.
“There are thousands of people doing similar things. Wildlife shelters would not exist without the volunteers.”
Ms Williams is the definition of community minded: a member of the Otis Foundation, Dandenong Ranges Country Fire Authority Auxiliary, a Millhaven Hostel volunteer, Guide Dogs Victoria volunteer and former president of the Emerald Ladies Probus Club.
