Robert Bateman Award

Toronto

Breathtaking photography of the elusive right whale tells the story of this critically endangered species through the eyes of scientists, photographers, fish harvesters, rescuers, volunteers and whale spotters. The documentary Last of the Right Whales engages people in how to help protect the few remaining individuals and their habitat and do the work to bring right whales back from the brink of extinction.

Awarded Best Canadian Feature at the Planet in Focus film festival in October 2021, the film had a successful launch in cinemas in February 2022. A broadcast version of the film aired on CBC Television’s The Nature of Things and is streaming on CBC Gem.

Working on Last of the Right Whales during the pandemic reminded me that |we are a species of problem-solvers. We can rewrite the ending to the story.

The best part about making documentaries is meeting people who are passionate enough to share their stories; they are always inspiring to me, and I am honoured to be able to amplify their voices. That shout-out extends to the film’s impact partners — Canadian Wildlife Federation, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Canadian Whale Institute, Sierra Club Canada Foundation, Oceans North and the Pew Charitable Trusts. Without these organizations, the film never would have had the impact it has had.

In commemoration of its 50^th anniversary and in salute to an extraordinary artist and nature lover, the Canadian Wildlife Federation established this award to recognize those who, through artistic expression, have furthered the awareness of and appreciation for Canada’s wildlife and habitats and their conservation.