Eminent entomologist Dr James Ridsdill-Smith has been recognised for his achievements over 40 years in research on the behaviour, ecology and management of insect and arthropod pests of pasture plants, by being awarded the inaugural AW Howard Medal and Oration.

Recognised for lifetime achievements and contributions to the Australian pasture industries – and the quality of his research and professional leadership – Dr Ridsdill-Smith’s work led to better control of redlegged earth mites, of aphid pests of lupins, of ground-dwelling scarab beetles and grass grubs, and of pod-borers of chickpeas.

The AW Howard Memorial Trust Committee and friends and colleagues associated with the Australian Pasture research community gathered for the historic presentation in the Victoria Room of the Edinburgh Hotel, Mitcham on Monday, 28 November.

Outgoing AW Howard Memorial Trust Committee chair, Professor Rob Lewis made the presentation to Dr Ridsdill-Smith who then delivered an Oration on his life’s work.

Dr Ridsdill-Smith described how, beginning with an early interest in natural history, he has endeavoured to combine modern theoretical and technological science with an observational and natural history approach during his 40 year career in entomology.

More information is available here [1].

Dr James Ridsdill-Smith being presented with the Howard Medal.

Back to The Leaflet [2].