The LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD was presented to Mr. Joseph N. Santarelli, Sr., Treasurer, Mersant International, Ltd. (retired) in recognition of a lifetime dedicated to the advancement of the safe and humane transport of animals and in recognition of an industry that is forever changed because of his guidance and leadership.  Further, his professional career indicated a strong belief in the ideals and mission statement of the AATA toward the welfare of animals being transported.  His nomination received the unanimous vote of affirmation by the Board of Directors as they felt that there is no one more desiring in receiving this special recognition.

(Mr. Santarelli was not in attendance and the award was accepted by Lisa Schoppa in his behalf and will be sent to him.)

The INTERNATIONAL AWARD was presented to Gregg Pittelkow, Senior Specialist of Operations, Delta Airlines - In recognition of his efforts in leading the development and implementation of policies and procedures that ensure the continued safe and efficient transport of live animals on Northwest’s global route system and as an outspoken advocate for safe and humane transport of animals not only within his own company but throughout the entire industry.  While serving as Chairman of the Live Animal Perishables Board (LAPB), his initiative led to the development of species targeted educational materials for shippers which culminated in the development of an internationally applicable training DVD aimed at the research animal transport community.  His leadership on the LAPB as well as his lifelong commitment to the transport of live animals has had a substantial impact on both domestic and international carriage of animals. 

The ROBERT D. CAMPBELL MEMORIAL AWARD was presented to

Giles Instone (Director of Instone Group) and Jeremy Instone (Director of Instone Air) — In recognition for their outstanding contributions over many years improving the safe and humane transport of horses particularly through your design and patent of innovative horse stalls and loading systems such as the “Airstable” and the “Walk On, Walk Off” systems used by the airline industry.  

The award was accepted by Mr. Jeremy Instone.

The ANIMAL WELFARE AWARD was presented to Victorian Division of the Australian Veterinary Association and to the Victorian Farmers Federation for their work for ensuring animal welfare during the devastating Victorian bushfires in February of 2009.  Their efforts in setting up veterinary clinics to handle livestock, companion animals and some native animals, organizing rescue efforts and care for the surviving animals is to be commended and used as an example of industry working together to for the benefits of animals and their welfare during natural disasters.

The award presented to The Victorian Division of of Australian Veterinary Association was accepted on their behalf by Dr. Norm Blackman of the Victoria Division, Australian Veterinary Association.

The PRESIDENTS AWARD was presented to  LiveCorp for their outstanding service “above and beyond” and in appreciation for their support and dedication to AATA’s 25th International Conference in Sydney.  They were instrumental in developing the overall conference program and organizing speakers.

The award was accepted by Dr Roly Nieper, Chairman of LiveCorp.