The University community was sadden to learn of the passing of Emeritus Professor Ron Leng AO on Wednesday, 12 March 2025.
Ron arrived at UNE from Yorkshire in 1959, joining the Faculty of Rural Science when it was still in its formative years. He quickly established himself as a leading researcher, completing a PhD under Professor Frank Annison in 1963 before founding UNE’s internationally recognised Ruminant Nutrition and Biochemistry Research Group. His team’s groundbreaking work attracted postdoctoral researchers and scientists from across the world, making UNE a hub for innovation in ruminant production.
In 1972, Ron was awarded UNE’s first Doctorate in Rural Science, and the following year he was appointed to a Personal Chair in Nutritional Biochemistry. Over the next three decades, he supervised more than 100 postgraduate students with many going on to become leaders in the field. His ability to inspire and mentor emerging scientists helped shape a generation of researchers, both in Australia and internationally.
Ron was a prolific researcher, publishing more than 300 papers in high-impact journals and five books. His work on ruminant nutrition, livestock productivity, and biofilms in the rumen was particularly influential. He secured substantial research funding from organisations such as the Wool Board, Australian Meat Research Council and ACIAR. His research findings had direct applications for improving agricultural systems worldwide.
His reputation as a leading scientist saw him undertake consultancies in over 30 countries, advising governments, aid organisations and industry on livestock nutrition. After retiring from UNE in 1995, he continued to provide consultancy services through Bionutric Pty Ltd, working with feed manufacturers and international development projects.
Beyond research, Ron played a key role in shaping UNE’s engagement with industry. He was a driving force behind ‘Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia’, a biennial conference that has influenced livestock nutrition practices for over 50 years. He also helped establish the Institute of Biotechnology at UNE in 1987 and was instrumental in the formation of the Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) for Beef Cattle and Meat Production in the early 1990s.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Ron was awarded an Order of Australia (AO) in 1993 for his service to agriculture and improving livestock productivity in developing countries. In 2022, he received a UNE Distinguished Alumni Award.
Ron’s legacy is one of intellectual curiosity, scientific excellence and an unwavering commitment to education and agricultural advancement. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to science but also for his generosity in mentoring others and his ability to challenge conventional thinking. His work continues to shape the field of animal nutrition, ensuring his impact will be felt for years to come.
A memorial service for Ron will be held on Wednesday, 26 March at Gregson & Weight Chapel, 159 Wises Road, Buderim QLD. Livestream link: https://www.gregsonweight.com.au/notice-detail/-OL9JKYlIyE-Y99YS9bu/
Wow – I remember Ron Leng’s lectures in rural science – he made ruminant nutrition and the web of chemical pathways exciting by his enthusiasm.
It was my very greatest pleasure to have known Ron over recent years. He had boundless enthusiasm for his science. He shared some interesting stories of his travels overseas helping rural communities in less fortunate countries.
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It was a pleasure to have known Ron over recent years. He had boundless enthusiasm for his science. He shared some interesting stories of his travels overseas helping rural communities in less fortunate countries. I really enjoyed our discussions on animal nutrition raising horses agriculture soil chemistry. He gave me some great advice on looking after my own small farm.