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<h1><em>simon says...</em></h1>
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<p>Welcome to the first edition of <em>The Leaflet </em>for 2011, in what will be a challenging yet exciting year for the Cooperative Research Centre for National Plant Biosecurity (CRCNPB).</p>
<p>In a busy start to the year we have already hosted the 2011 Science Exchange and commenced the initial stages for the rebid. After gaining strong support from the Participants at their recent meeting and the Board, the CRCNPB is hopeful this year’s rebid will be successful.</p>
<p>Over the coming months our focus for the rebid will be on addressing the areas for improvement identified by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research (DIISR); developing the research programs - taking into consideration the research priorities of end-users; and securing letters of intent from potential participants.</p>
<p>Moving back to the Science Exchange, the Barossa Valley provided a wonderful back drop and gave attendees the opportunity to experience the viticulture industry, which is constantly facing biosecurity issues.</p>
<p>The high level of interaction between participants from various disciplines was interesting and occurred although the student workshops, Board meetings, poster and presentation sessions and the social outings. The success of the Science Exchange was demonstrated when a delegate stated “this is the best biosecurity conference I have ever attended!”</p>
<p>The Science Exchange Awards Dinner provided us with the opportunity to recognise our peers for the work they have undertaken over the past year. I would like to congratulate each of the individuals who were honoured for their achievements, as each of you have been rewarded for the dedication and commitment you have shown to biosecurity. More information on the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.crcplantbiosecurity.com.au/content/crcnpb-family-hits-barossa-science-exchange-2011">Science Exchange</a> and the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.crcplantbiosecurity.com.au/content/researchers-recognised-science-exchange-awards-dinner">awards</a> are available in this edition of <em>The Leaflet</em>.</p>
<p>As I reflect on the Science Exchange, I would like to congratulate the staff of the CRC, and in particular Kate Scott, for running another fantastic event. The positive feedback I continue to receive about these events is a credit to Kate and the team for the time and effort put in to ensure they run smoothly.</p>
<p>Unfortunately this will be Kate’s last Science Exchange for the CRCNPB, as she leaves us to spend more time with her family in Brisbane. I would like to wish her well in her future endeavours and thank her for all the effort and energy she has put into the CRCNPB over the past three years.</p>
<p>I’d also like to congratulate Mark Castalanelli, who has submitted his thesis. Mark’s thesis focused on developing a simple and accurate diagnostics to rapidly distinguish Khapra beetle from its close relatives, which plays an important role in protecting Australia’s grains industry. More information on Mark’s project is available in this edition of <em><a target="_blank" href="http://www.crcplantbiosecurity.com.au/content/dna-tool-breaks-hitchhikers-disguise">The Leaflet</a></em>.</p>
<p>Lastly, I look forward to working with you all in 2011 and appreciate your support in our attempts to ensure the CRC continues well beyond this year.</p>
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<p><img alt="" width="110" height="62" src="/sites/all/files/S McKirdy web.jpg" /></p>
<p>Dr Simon McKirdy<br />
<strong>Chief Executive Officer<br />
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