Logan praises WA chief scientist.

2/05/06
Science and Innovation Minister Francis Logan today praised outgoing Western Australian Chief Scientist Bruce Hobbs for his leadership and vision over the past three years.
Dr Hobbs resigned from his position to pursue exciting developments in the field of structural geology. He recently submitted a paper to leading science journal Nature.
Dr Hobbs' work over the past decade has centred on developing computer applications which simulate the formation of ore bodies with the aim of enhancing the mining industry's ability to discover new ore bodies.
Mr Logan said the State Government had implemented many of Dr Hobbs' strategies after former Premier Geoff Gallop appointed him as the State's Chief Scientist in 2003.
"Dr Hobbs is a leader in his scientific field and we have been privileged to have him lead the State's Office of Science and Innovation for the past three years," the Minister said.
"Under his leadership the WA Government has established the $150million WA Energy Research Alliance Major Research Facility and is creating the $80million WA Marine Science Institute.
"These major research facilities are expected to generate $200million of additional research investments into the State."
Mr Logan said Dr Hobbs was responsible for overseeing the Centres of Excellence Program and played a major role in the formation of the WA Institute of Agriculture - a joint venture between the WA Department of Agriculture, the University of WA, Curtin university and Murdoch university.
Dr Hobbs had played a major role in developing the State Government's collaborative research program, and science and innovation studentships program.
"Since Dr Hobbs' appointment, the State Government has been a key player in fostering scientific communication and education within WA," the Minister said.
"Dr Hobbs' work in providing a strategic direction for the State's scientific research and development investment will help ensure sustained growth for the sector."
Dr Hobbs finishes as Chief Scientist on Thursday May 4, 2006
Minister's office: 9222 8950