Patty is a trailblazing figure in the world of animal rights, recognized internationally for her tireless work as a rescuer and pioneer of the Open Rescue Movement. For decades, she has stood at the forefront of animal defense, conducting daring investigations into factory farms and backyard breeders—often in the stillness of night, armed with nothing but a flashlight, a video camera, and her unwavering courage.
In 1978, nearly 46 years ago, Patty founded Animal Liberation Victoria (ALV) with a singular vision: to protect and liberate animals from cruelty. Her passion for change ignited the Open Rescue movement, a bold and transparent approach where activists reveal their identities while exposing inhumane conditions and rescuing animals from harm.
Guided by a steadfast belief in non-violence, Patty’s rescue missions have always been peaceful, with the only “damage” being the occasional broken padlock—often replaced by her own hands. Her encounters with hostile farmers and slaughterhouse workers had never deterred her; instead, she met their aggression with empathy, always seeking to awaken compassion.
In 2016, Patty expanded her mission of kindness by relocating to a rural property and transforming her urban sanctuary into Liberation Sanctuary—a safe haven now home to over 140 rescued animals. Today, she continues to serve as the Sanctuary’s dedicated manager and president of Animal Liberation Victoria, pouring her heart into every animal she saves and every life she touches.
I want to share my Tofu Turkey recipe because turkeys are so very special to me. We’ve rescued quite a few over the past 30 years from filthy and overcrowded production sheds. I’ve been fortunate to get to know these very intelligent and special birds up close as I share their lives here at our Liberation Sanctuary.
I know, being 75, how hard tradition holds us to have that ‘huge turkey’ adorning our festive tables. So this recipe is how to succeed on both fronts! And flavoured tofu is much better at the centre of your festive table rather than the dead body of a magnificent individual who didn’t want to die.