"Sam" the koala was spotted by Victorian volunteer firefighter David Tree moving around on scorched paws.

Mr Tree crouched down and offered the furry marsupial a gulp from his water bottle, which she accepted, placing her paw in his hand as she drank three bottles.

A photo and video of the moment have been broadcast around the world.

Now Mr Tree's efforts have earned him recognition from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia-Pacific.

The organisation announced Mr Tree would receive the Hero to Animals Award for the rescue, which occurred near Mirboo North on February 1.

Nearby fires destroyed 30 houses, cars and other property before being contained on February 7.

No one was killed in those fires, though 181 people have died in other blazes in the state, some suspected to have been deliberately lit.

"This tragedy has shown the best and worst in people," PETA director Jason Baker said.

"The compassion that David Tree showed in caring for Sam is an inspiration to others throughout the community and beyond."

PETA has also written to the Victorian Director of Public Prosecutions urging it to pursue animal cruelty charges after up to one million native animals perished in the fires.

"Because scores of animals weren't as lucky as Sam, PETA is strongly urging the prosecutor to pursue cruelty-to-animals charges,'' Mr Baker said.