Aimee Ingram (aka Rainbow Wolfstar)

private citizen (Australia)

Today's Date: 17.1.07

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

Ever since I could remember..... when my feet touch the ground I was home, when I lay on the grass it was love and when I breathed in the air I was free.... I lived in the bush all my life till I was 18. I was always going walkabout on my dad’s property..... gone for at least hours but sometimes longer.... I was able to track certain animals and I have had so many brushes with animals and nature that I can’t name anything specific.... but one thing that I was always taught by my family is take no more than you will use, and if you're not prepared to kill it then don’t eat it..... I was always there when my dad slaughtered the sheep for tea and the worst part was the throat cut.... still makes my skin crawl.... but from a very early age I learnt to respect all things living and I am now so grateful for being there when he slaughtered those animals because now I understand the value of life to give life.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?

The clearing at the top of the hill at the back paddock, on my dad’s property or sitting by the river somewhere having a fish.

Now? Still the same.... but unfortunately don’t get there much anymore so I have to settle for out in the garden under the nectarine tree.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

Probably the wombat.... it is a very fascinating creature to sit and watch.... fun to track too.....

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

Climate change and the shortage of water..... that's for both now and future! Everyday in everyway... use less water!!!

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

Don’t waste what you have... one day it might not be there!!! and like my family taught me....Don’t take more than you will use and if you're not prepared to kill it- don’t eat it!!!!