Registered wildlife rehabilitator Craig Webb OAM describes himself as “a nature loving bloke that doesn’t take no for an answer”.  

In 2001, he founded Raptor Refuge in Kettering Tasmania, where he has been director ever since.  

Raptor Refuge helps with rehabilitation of injured birds, and ensures they return to the wild. It also raises awareness for the threats raptors face, particularly in the context of powerline infrastructure being built in Tasmania.  

“If an animal needs help and I see it, I will bend over backwards to do whatever is required to alleviate the issues,” he says.  

“I want to be a voice for the voiceless and a loud one too. I just tend to be full on in whatever I do – go hard or go home as they say.” 

Craig Webb OAM was awarded the Medal of the Order for service to wildlife conservation in The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list.  

He says he hopes his recognition can amplify his work.  

“My reaction was firstly surprise and a sense of shock, but as it sunk in and I understood the significance of the award, I wondered how best it can help the raptors of Tasmania,” he explains.  

“Can I have a louder voice to make even more of a difference, and will it help create a better understanding of the serious threats they face?”

“I’m not sure how the recognition will impact my life, but I have a sneaking suspicion that I will be busier than before in my advocacy work and more birds will come in for care as more and more awareness is created.”