A conservationist who has rescued countless native animals and raised vital funds for wildlife care and habitat protection has received one of the region’s top gongs.
Wildlife Rescue Sunshine Coast founder Claire Smith was named the Sunshine Coast Citizen of the Year at Sunshine Coast Council’s Biosphere Community Awards.
Ms Smith played a vital role when the 2019 bushfires ravaged Australia’s landscapes. She raised more than $600,000 to support more than 50 wildlife rescue groups via a grassroots fundraising campaign.
She also established Queensland’s first dedicated kangaroo hospital, is leading a $5 million fundraising campaign to build a Koala Conservation Centre and is fiercely protective of contentious ‘Fluffy’ the emu.
Ms Smith also educates communities, advises governments on wildlife policy and writes children’s books for those experiencing trauma, donating them through her Lionhearted Foundation.
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Recently named Queensland’s Local Hero for 2025 in the Australian of the Year Awards, Ms Smith uses her growing platform to push for national habitat preservation.
“We can’t just keep putting band-aids on wildlife. We need to protect the places they call home,” she said.
She was one of 140 nominees recognised at the community awards at Maroochy RSL on June 20.
The awards celebrated individuals and organisations that embody the values of the UNESCO-designated Sunshine Coast Biosphere – celebration, participation, innovation and belonging.
Nominees were recognised across eight categories for their contributions to the health of the planet, people, arts and business.
Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges from the Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Advisory Group, Unitywater, Sunshine Coast Broadcasters and University of the Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the nominees were the backbone of our community and the region was a better place thanks to their contribution, leadership, dedication and passion.
“These awards are not only a great way to pause, acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding achievements of those already making a contribution, they also serve to inspire others to make the small changes that really make a difference,” she said.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring our region continues to be a wonderful place to live, work and play and our nominees are a shining example of how each of us can contribute to a more sustainable Sunshine Coast.”
Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards recipients
- Citizen of the Year: Claire Smith – Wildlife Rescue hero
- Senior Citizens of the Year: Dr Ken Wishaw (Yandina Creek) – pioneering anaesthetist and dark sky advocate; Tony Long (Currimundi) – visionary community builder and volunteer
- Young Citizen of the Year: Finley Coll (Buderim) – disability advocate and accessibility leader
- Community Group or Organisation: Bamboo Projects (Mooloolaba) – mental health and environmental charity; ECOllaboration (Nambour) – conservation and sustainability leaders
- Biosphere Business of the Year: Aqua Ubique (Birtinya) – innovators in atmospheric water generation
- Creative Arts Award: Lyndon Davis (Bli Bli) – Kabi Kabi cultural leader and artist
- Healthy Planet Award: TurtleCare Sunshine Coast – marine turtle conservation program
- Healthy People Award: Disabled Surfers Association Sunshine Coast – inclusive surf experiences
