Salinity expert named 2008 Farrer Memorial Medal Winner

Farrer Memorial Trust Chairman, Barry Buffier, today announced salinity and agricultural  scientist Professor Philip Cocks as the winner of the 2008 Farrer Memorial medal.

Formerly the Chief Executive Officer with the Centre for Cooperative Research for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity, Professor Cocks is well regarded for his contribution to a range of agricultural research initiatives, Mr Buffier said.

"In 2001 the Cooperative Research Centre for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity was established, and Professor Cocks appointed foundation CEO," he said.

"Professor Cocks played an important part in establishing the Business Plan for the CRC, which operates across four states and has 11 partners. Its objectives include developing profitable farming systems based on perennial plants.

"Dr Cocks has also previously been the Professor of Agriculture in the Plant Sciences Group at The University of Western Australia, overseeing research into plant genetic resources for improved and sustainable crop and pasture production, the role of weeds in farming systems, and plant science. 

"He was also the Deputy Executive Dean, University of WA 1993-1999, a member of the western panel of the Grains Research and Development Corporation between 1995 and 2001, and former principal research Officer at the SA Department of Agriculture.

"Professor Cocks has also been presented a number of awards in recognition of his research efforts, including the BHP Landcare Award 1999 and Excellence in Postgraduate Supervision at the University of WA, 1999.

"He has given numerous presentations at international conference and seminar events, and has also been heavily involved in the WA agricultural community.

"Professor Cocks is a well regarded and highly esteemed contributor to agricultural science across the country and beyond, and a worthy recipient of this award." 

Mr Buffier said Professor Cocks would receive the Farrer Memorial Medal in Adelaide early in the new year at a ceremony being held to coincide with the 2nd International Salinity Forum, when he would also be invited to give the 2008 Farrer Memorial Oration. 

The Farrer Memorial Medal was established in 1911 to perpetuate the memory of William Farrer and to encourage and inspire agricultural scientists.

The medal is awarded annually to a person who has provided distinguished service in agricultural science in the areas of research, education, extension or administration.