It is our great pleasure to recognize and honour two extraordinary individuals who have dedicated their lives to the noble cause of equine welfare. Both have made an indelible mark on our organization and the lives of countless horses.
It is our privilege to present the Lifetime Membership Award to these two remarkable individuals, in recognition of their outstanding contributions, selfless dedication, and passion for creating a better world for horses.
- Kathryn Wren
- Joined Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria 18 years ago and has held various committee positions, including Secretary, Vice-President, and President.
- Trained Horse Representative with experience in horse reports and short/long-term horse care.
- Instrumental in the 2016 Warrack Seizure, negotiating with RSPCA and caring for 47 horses.
- Contributed to internal documentation, website updates, newsletters, and drafted the organisation’s governing rules.
- Represented PHHWV in stakeholder meetings, Victorian Horse Council, and drafted submissions for equine welfare legislation changes.
- Organised and attended various events, including Seymour Expo, Equitana, and fundraising functions.
- Secured PHHWV as a charity of choice at Equitana and organised a Gala Fundraising Dinner in 2022.
- Provided emergency support with her husband Leigh during natural disasters.
- Currently co-ordinates Operation Reconnect and chairs the 50th Anniversary Sub-Committee.
- Provides pro bono legal advice to PHHWV.
Jane Duckworth
- Joined PHHWV in 1998 – 27 years ago
- In 2002 Jane joined the general committee and in 2005 became elected Vice President
- Through her writing and advocacy, Jane has raised awareness and pushes for improved treatment and living conditions for all animals in Australia
- Strong interest in animal welfare, particularly horses and dogs
- Author of several books including :
- “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They: The Treatment of Horses in Australia” (2002)
- “Not Every Dog Has His Day: The Treatment of Dogs in Australia” (2009)
- Written a Children’s book “Snow Rescue”
- Co-authored “The Story of Agroforestry” with Lisa Robins (short-listed for Australian Award for Excellence in Educational Publishing in 2004)
- Active member of Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria
- In 2003 Jane wrote regular articles for PHHWV in our quarterly newsletter under the heading of NET RIDER, attended countless events, many horse reports, several stints as newsletter coordinator, Long Term Lease Committee, 2015 was integral in updating the website, 2018 created a promotional clip along with Sue Smith and Nicky Fanning featuring the one and only Creature, 2021 Jane also wrote the Re homing responsibly document, 2023 Jane sat with myself and Rhonda to look at what was need to update our website , 2024 helped Rhonda and I do the submission for Victorian Animal Care and Prevention Act and 2025 sees Jane once again inlved in the 50th Anniversary project lead by Kathryn Wren.
- Published articles in various magazines, including Horses and People and the Herald Sun
- Completed a Diploma of Arts (Professional Writing and Editing) in 1998
- Background as a secondary school teacher-librarian and freelance writer