Murdoch University ambassador and former Chief Scientist of Western Australia Professor Lyn Beazley AO has been awarded prestigious RiAus Honorary Bragg Membership at a ceremony in Adelaide.Professor Beazley was presented with the membership, which recognises excellence in scientific achievement, by RiAus Patron, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, along with 13 other eminent scientists.
Named after the prominent South Australian pioneer scientists Sir William Henry Bragg and Sir William Lawrence Bragg, Honourary Bragg Membership is the highest category of membership awarded by RiAus, which works to promote public awareness and understanding of science across Australia.
“I was thrilled to receive the membership and join some very illustrious names on the list of inductees,” said Professor Beazley.
“I was also delighted to meet His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent and we spoke about His Royal Highness Prince Philip’s interest in endangered species in Western Australia. His support helped to ensure the survival of the Noisy scrubbird in the past and more recently the Western Ground Parrot. The Duke suggested that I send an update to the palace, which I will do.
“The conversation over the lunch was around science communication and the launch of a new science TV initiative by RiAus. Several speakers also stressed the importance of science education outreach in schools – an issue I am particularly passionate about.”
The recognition is the latest in a series of accolades for Professor Beazley, who was recently named WA Australian of the Year 2015 making her a national finalist for the Australian of the Year award presented in January.
After dedicating 30 years of her life to researching recovery from brain damage and changing clinical practice in the treatment of infants at risk from pre-term delivery, Professor Beazley advised the state government on science, innovation and technology as Chief Scientist of WA from 2006 to 2013.
Professor Beazley was appointed the Sir Walter Murdoch Distinguished Professor of Science by Murdoch University last year. The role involves promoting Murdoch’s initiatives and achievements to the community, government and industry.
Former Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Professor John Yovich also holds Bragg membership at RiAus. Other leading inductees include Professor Fiona Stanley AC and Professor Barry Marshall AC.