State joins forces for agricultural research

The Agriculture Minister, Mr Kim Chance launched the integrated research institute, Agricultural Research Western Australia (ARWA) on 19 August at a ceremony at Club Murdoch.

ARWA integrates the agricultural research and research training of Curtin University of Technology, the Department of Agriculture, Murdoch University and The University of Western Australia.

Murdoch University's Vice Chancellor Professor John Yovich, and the Vice-chancellor of The University of Western Australia, Professor Alan Robson, the Pro Vice-chancellor of Curtin University of Technology, Professor Barney Glover, and Dr Wally Cox as Chairman of the ARWA Board were all present at the launch.

(l-r) Curtin University Pro Vice Chancellor (Research), Professor Barney Glover; Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, Ian Longson; UWA Vice Chancellor Professor alan robson; Minister for Agriculture the Hon kim Chance MLA; ARWA Board Chair Dr Wally Cox; Murdoch Vice chancellor Professor John Yovich

Mr Chance said WA's newest science-based organisation intended to consolidate research development and teaching in agriculture, food and natural resource management. 'Agricultural Research Western Australia (ARWA) will be able to combine bigger, more capable scientifi c teams that are equipped to tackle the big issues and opportunities facing WA agriculture,' the Minister said.

'This means WA will be well positioned to increase its share of national research and development funding, and to attract international research projects. The State Government committed $28million in the 2005-06 Budget to develop the fi rst phase of ARWA's facilities and remains committed to developing the remainder once this phase is underway.

'Agriculture is an industry that constantly seeks new ways to improve performance. Likewise, the agricultural research and education sectors are seeking to improve their ability to provide relevant, timely and costeffective services and products.'

The Minister said ARWA would accommodate the specifi c needs of each partner organisation while harnessing the collective power of all four - a bold response that would provide many advantages for WA's agricultural industries.

Murdoch University's Pro Vice Chancellor (Research) Professor Andris Stelbovics said, 'We are actually already seeing tangible benefits through drawing together groupings of agricultural researchers working in significant fields across universities and the Department of Agriculture WA.'