Larry is lauded by Ezemvelo

‘DEVOID of sensationalism, his articles have been instrumental in increasing the readership amongst Zululand readers of environmental issues.’

These words are part of the motivation in awarding of the Environmental Journalist Award to Larry Bentley, Zululand Observer journalist and editor of AgriECO Zululand.

The award was one of 20 awards presented at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s Excellence Awards ceremony held at the Sibiya Casino on Thursday evening.

Of the awards, six were external awards to organisations and individuals for their contribution to conservation and the organisation.

Nominations are made by the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife staff.

Twenty-eight meritorious awards were also made, mostly to field staff for bravery in the performance of their duties.

In the citation, Larry was also recognised for his passion and active engagement in attending events and functions.

Larry says he has always had an interest in conservation issues and as a pupil dreamt of becoming a game ranger, reading books on the subject fueling his passion.

After school, he opted for forestry, but still maintained his conservation roots.

Larry says,’I am grateful to the Zululand Observer in giving me the opportunity to live out this passion.’

‘Understanding issues as a conservation ‘insider’ makes the task of writing on conservation that much easier.’

He says witnessing cheetah, wild dog and rhino releases, rhino captures and other exciting events are amazing, but it is also important to cover stories affecting the lives of the conservationists.

‘These include issues such as HIV AIDS initiatives and other community issues including the Ezemvelo Cup soccer tournament.

‘Conservation is very different as more and more pressures are exerted on the natural environment, but it is important to maintain the balance.

‘Conservation is going through a tough time with many negative reports, but the men on the ground need to be encouraged.’

Larry says,’Most are dedicated and hard working as was seen in the meritorious awards presented to the foot soldiers who are putting their lives at risk to preserve our natural resources.

‘They are the real heroes of conservation.’

Zululand Observer editor Dave Savides said the award was well deserved as it went to a man whose passion and energy levels are unequalled.

‘The amount of work he gets through, and the distances he travels, far exceed the norm.

‘Besides conservation, he writes prolifically on community issues, politics, crime and sport.

‘He is also an outstanding photographer and above all, a most likeable person.’