UNE was recognised for the impact of its research at the launch of the prestigious NSW Universities’ Research Impact Showcase at Parliament house in Sydney last Thursday.
Hosted by the NSW Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning, The Honourable Sarah Mitchell MLC, the event highlighted the extraordinary outcomes made possible through research partnerships, and the many ways in which universities, in collaboration with their local communities, industries and state and local governments, are delivering real-world benefits to NSW.
Among the esteemed researchers acknowledged for their significant contributions to NSW communities were UNE’s Dr Robert Banks (AGBU) and Professor John Pegg (SiMERR).
The recognition of Dr Banks and Professor Pegg is further accolades for these programs which were both recognised with the highest rating for impact by the national assessment of Engagement and Impact by the Australian Research Council in April this year.
AGBU
“By combining large industry datasets with genetic analysis, AGBU has developed leading genetic evaluation software applicable to a range of sectors including beef, sheep and trees. In Australia, gross benefits from AGBU’s beef and sheep genetics R&D are estimated at $1.4 billion, which adds an extra $45 million to $50 million of on-farm wealth each year by increasing the value of agricultural outputs, while reducing their input costs.”
SiMERR
“Gaps in performance between educationally disadvantaged students and their peers widen from Year 3 to Year 5 and on to Year 7 and Year 9. Students who by Year 4 show consistent weaknesses in basic skills find achieving sustainable progress difficult in the usual classroom school environment. This can lead to ongoing economic and social disadvantage. The University of New England’s Quicksmart program addresses the literacy and numeracy needs of these students.”
Further information is available in the publication, “Research Impact – The contribution NSW Universities are making to the state’s prosperity and wellbeing.”