The Cooperative Research Centre for National Plant Biosecurity (CRCNPB) has been recognised for the groundbreaking research it has been undertaking, winning an Award for Excellence in Innovation for its Remote Microscope Network (RMN).

The award was presented by Professor Margaret Sheil – CEO of the Australian Research Council – at the annual CRC Association Conference Awards Dinner, which was held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 18 May.

The new RMN system, which links field officers with national and international experts, has enabled a dramatic speed-up in the identification of exotic insects and diseases which may pose a threat to crops and the environment in Australia.

The RMN is used in conjunction with the Plant Biosecurity Toolbox (PBT), which includes high quality images as well as information about the distribution. Together they enable field officers to identify pests quickly and accurately, and respond to any threats. This could save millions of dollars in eradication costs and lost market access for Australian producers.

CRCNPB CEO Dr Simon McKirdy, who accepted the award on behalf of the project team, said the project pioneered the use of existing technologies to develop a new and innovative approach to diagnostics for the plant health community.

A promotional video, which was shown at the Awards Dinner and highlights the innovative work the RMN has achieved, can be viewed here [1].

To find out more about the RMN and the award, read the CRCNPB award submission [2].