Weaving Traditional Knowledge with western science for a new approach to pain relief, tapping into green energy using recycling byproducts, and a revolutionary new approach to sustainability for the beef and lamb industry, are all being celebrated at the ATSE Annual national Awards tonight.
Weaving Traditional Knowledge with western science for a new approach to pain relief, tapping into green energy using recycling byproducts, and a revolutionary new approach to sustainability for the beef and lamb industry, are all being celebrated at the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering’s Annual national Awards tonight.
The winning engineers and technologists have been recognised for their groundbreaking work on Australia’s toughest issues, spanning climate change, mining, plastic waste, battery tech and food security among others, during a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra.
Nyikina Mangala West Kimberley Elder John Dadigar Watson and Professor Ronald Quinn AM FTSE from Griffith University were named as the inaugural recipients of the Traditional Knowledge Innovation Award. John’s personal experience – losing a finger in a crocodile attack – led him to the Mudjala mangrove tree’s bark for pain relief. Collaborating with Professor Quinn, they identified active compounds in the bark with anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties. This treatment holds promise as a gel for athletes at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, and heralds widespread application for Traditional Knowledge, while maintaining Aboriginal ownership.
Winner of the prestigious Batterham Medal for Engineering Excellence, Dr Conrad Wasko from the University of Melbourne, has revealed through his research that while small floods, crucial for water supplies, are decreasing, large catastrophic flooding events are becoming the norm. His work demonstrates the uneven impacts of climate change and the threat it poses for safe and sustainable water supplies Australia-wide.
Clunies Ross Technology Innovation Award recipient Dr James Tickner, revolutionises mineral exploration using x-ray technology. Dr Tickner, of Chrysos Corporation Ltd, developed the PhotonAssayTM which can rapidly and safely identify gold, silver, and other elements in rocky samples. This groundbreaking technology has redefined the landscape of mineral exploration, offering unprecedented efficiency and safety.
ATSE President, Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE, said the winners’ innovation, drive, and impact were exemplars for the game-changing application of Australian research.
“The winners of the 2023 ATSE Awards are exemplary engineers, applied scientists, and leaders in technology; their shining example is an inspiration as we reflect on and celebrate the novel science and engineering endeavours that are bettering our world,” Dr Katherine Woodthorpe said.
“Australian innovators are changing the world for the better. I am thrilled to see our national award winners’ game-changing work forging new territory in medical technology, climate solutions, critical minerals, food technology, and waste reduction.”
Diversity and Inclusion
Reconciliation Action Plan Diversity and inclusion policy Diversity & Inclusion ToolkitConnect
Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering
Level 2, 28 National Circuit Forrest ACT 2603
+61 2 6185 3240 | info@atse.org.au
ABN 58 008 520 394 — ATSE is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission,
and is a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).
