The Golden Ort Award is more than just a recognition—it’s our way of celebrating the unsung heroes who drive our work forward, often behind the scenes, often without fanfare. As a small, unfunded organisation, we rely on the generosity, knowledge and energy of our partners, volunteers and friends. This award shines a light on those whose contributions have made an exceptional impact.
An ort is a small scrap or morsel of food. For Glossy Black-Cockatoos, their orts—chewed she-oak cones scattered beneath feed trees—are the vital clues that help researchers and citizen scientists track their presence and understand their feeding habits. In our world, orts are a symbol of quiet persistence and valuable evidence, even in the smallest trace.
The Golden Ort Award, first presented in 2009, is named in honour of these tiny but telling signs—and the passionate people who follow them.
Each year, Conservancy members nominate and vote for a standout individual worthy of this recognition. The award is open to anyone in the Conservancy community—Partners, Friends, volunteers or supporters—who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the cause.
“This bird is my spirit animal and I will never, ever, give up on it.”
A fitting sentiment from ecologist and Conservancy member Mike Barth, who received the 2024 Golden Ort Award.
With decades of hands-on experience monitoring Glossies on Kangaroo Island and the mainland, Mike has contributed extensively to Conservancy projects, working groups and sub-committees. His passion for the species is infectious—and unwavering.
2023 – Spencer Hitchen
2022 – Eric Anderson AO
2021 – Samantha Morris
2019 – Dr Daniella Teixeira
2017 – Tracey Larkin
2016 – Dr Penn Lloyd
2015 – Bob Carey
2014 – Holly Keddie
2013 – Tracey Larkin
2010 – Dr Guy Castley
2009 – Jedd Appleton, Liz Gould, Simone O’Keefe & Lee Dorahy