Congratulations to leading academic and science communicator in the field of soil science and soil biology, Emeritus Professor Lynette Abbott, for scooping up the inaugural General Jeffery Soil Health Award.
The international expert from the University of Western Australia celebrated at one of several COVID-safe functions across Australia, streamed online as part of the 2021 National Landcare Awards last night.
The Award recognises an individual’s work to champion, improve and/or educate others in soil health and is supported by the Office of the National Soils Advocate within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
It is dedicated to Australia’s first National Soils Advocate, the late Major General the Honourable Michael Jeffery, AC, AO (Mil), CVO, MC (Retd).
“General Jeffery was a tireless champion of soil health. I am sure all who knew and worked with him will be delighted to see his legacy honoured and maintained in this way,” said the Honourable Penny Wensley AC, Australia’s current National Soils Advocate.
Presenting the award from Canberra, she said “Emeritus Professor Abbott has long been a champion and leading voice in the field of soil health. She is a most deserving recipient of this new award.”
Professor Abbott is a pioneering researcher on fungi in agriculture and disturbed natural environments, and is acknowledged as a world leader in this field.
She has shared her extensive knowledge with students, and by establishing the innovative ‘Know your Soil Biology’ workshops for farmers, she is providing hands-on activities demonstrating the benefits of soil biota for soil health/quality.
Professor Abbott is currently consolidating soil health knowledge through a project in the Australian Government Smart Farms program.
“Many have benefited from her research and knowledge over her 40 year career. It is a great pleasure for me, as Australia’s National Soils Advocate, to be able to acknowledge her contribution and to support her continued work through this $20,000 Award,” said the Hon. Penny Wensley AC.
Find out more about the awards, winner and finalists General Jeffery Soil Health Award.
