A new national award has been launched to recognise the exceptional work of Australia’s first National Soils Advocate, former Governor-General Michael Jeffery (pictured).
Landcare Australia said the prestigious accolade recognised an individual’s work to champion, improve and/or educate others in soil health and was named in Major General Jeffery’s honour.
“General Jeffery passionately advocated for improvements in the health of our agricultural landscape,” Landcare Australia said.
“By championing soil health from Parliament House to the paddock, he successfully changed attitudes towards soil sustainability and energised change on farms right across Australia,” it said.
“He relentlessly pursued his focus on the importance of integrated management of soil, water, animals and plants to the benefit of all Australians and our environment.”
Landcare Australia said the General Jeffery Soil Health Award would be presented to an individual farmer, land manager or extension specialist who made an outstanding contribution improving, championing, or educating others about soil health.
National Soils Advocate, Penny Wensley said General Jeffery was a tireless champion of soil health and changed attitudes toward soil sustainability.
“His relentless advocacy of the importance of integrated management of soil, water, animals and plants, to the benefit of all Australians, has energised change across Australia and left an indelible legacy,” Ms Wensley said.
Chief Executive of Landcare Australia, Shane Norrish said the award would form part of the suite of distinguished awards within the biennial National Landcare Awards administered by Landcare Australia and be presented at the Awards Gala Dinner on 5 August 2021.
Further information on the award can be accessed at this PS News link.
