Australian of the Year

Greg Irons is a visionary wildlife conservationist who built and operates Tasmania’s first wildlife rescue service and hospital.  

Greg’s commitment began while still in school after discovering an injured owl and spending a weekend trying to find help. He was left with the realisation that a rescue service didn’t exist – a gap that stayed with him.  

Greg set out to build this missing service. He started work at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary when he was 19 years old, ultimately purchasing Bonorong to fund these services at just 25, through a bold mix of vendor and bank finance. 

Greg established a 24/7 statewide rescue network and personally trained more than 20,000 people in wildlife rescue. Bonorong volunteers and staff respond to over 22,000 rescue calls each year. Greg also built Tasmania’s first wildlife hospital, which supports up to 5,000 patients a year. Under his leadership, Bonorong has grown to more than 80 staff and directs up to $3 million annually toward conservation.