24 Nov 2017
An inspiring, young innovator, Dr Rebecca Darbyshire has been recognised for her contribution to Australia’s food security with the inaugural ICM Agrifood Award from the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE).
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) agricultural climatologist received the prestigious early-career award tonight, having been nominated among a field of fellow researchers, entrepreneurs and technologists.
Dr Darbyshire said the award puts the spotlight on the value of innovation in agricultural research.
“Scientific research is challenging and important to the agricultural sector and it’s rewarding to see young men and women are valued for our contributions,” Dr Darbyshire said.
NSW DPI climate director, Dr Jason Crean, said Dr Darbyshire’s research has focused on leading climate change readiness for Australian fruit and tree nut industries.
“Rebecca has boosted industry knowledge of fruit tree responses to weather conditions, focusing on winter chill, extreme heat damage and flowering cycles,” Dr Crean said.
“Farmers in those industries now have the tools to better make decisions and investments, which boost productivity and profitability in a variable climate.
“A major contribution from Dr Darbyshire has been the development of innovative ways to make complex scientific results more accessible for farmers.
“Now she is applying those skills in her work with NSW DPI, which is exploring strategies to better manage climate variability, including the use of climate forecasts across livestock and cropping industries.
“The aim is to build a better understanding of how crops are influenced by weather and climate so farmers are equipped to manage climate variability and adapt to climate change.”
Dr Darbyshire received the $5000 ICM Agrifood Award at ATSE’s Oration Dinner held in Sydney on Friday November 24.
ATSE is an independent body of 800 eminent Australian scientists and engineers enhancing Australia’s prosperity through technology and innovation.
Media contact: Bernadette York 0427 773 785