Shine On—June 2024

Message from the President

Through this donor newsletter, it is with great pleasure that I share highlights from our philanthropy program and updates on the impact of your generous giving.

It has been wonderful to see many of you at Academy gatherings, events and online as part of our 70th anniversary celebrations.

This year marks our 70th anniversary, an important milestone for Australia’s first and most distinguished learned academy. An institution that always has, and will, continue to bring science to the service of the nation and leadership to the Australian science sector.

For 70 years our commitment to strengthening Australian science—its systems, its structure and its people—has remained unwavering. We do so, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of science, and so science can continue to underpin civil society.

Over the years, we have taken much pride in being an independent and trusted scientific voice and advisor. This role is perhaps more important than ever, given that we live in a world where science is at the heart of every major issue we face.

Every one of our national ambitions—whether it be decarbonisation of our economy, strengthening our national security, preventing future pandemics, fighting disease, or growing advanced industries on our shores—require scientific and technological advances, which in turn require Australia to have the strongest possible science system.

And there are few other organisations, if any, that have such a sustained record in shaping Australia’s science system.

Philanthropy is crucial in supporting this ongoing mission and truly has the unique ability to enable growth to help us to secure our future, maintain our independence, and support strategic activities.

Since my last update, there have been many significant achievements made possible through your support.

I am continuously awed and inspired by the generosity of our valued supporters and your thoughtful consideration ensuring your donations provide a lasting impact on the Academy’s activities.

I am delighted to share one particular example, through the recent establishment of the Early Career Scientists International Fund, made possible by a leadership gift by Emeritus Professor Cheryl Praeger AC FAA and Dr John Henstridge.

I warmly thank Cheryl and John, whose donation has inspired me and my wife Vidya to support this initiative, and together we hope it will help to bolster the Fund, and collectively have greater reach and impact.

In April, we highlighted the remarkable achievements of 22 researchers from around Australia who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of science and who have been recognised through our honorific awards.

From climate change to public health, Australian researchers are addressing the challenges our communities face every day and their dedication to the pursuit of knowledge enriches our understanding of the world around us and sets a great example for generations to come. I extend my appreciation to the generous donors who ensure they are supported and recognised.

Bequests are helping to consolidate support for existing projects and untied mission-focused activities. An untied bequest on behalf of Professor Michael Dopita FAA was realised in 2023 and the Academy’s Council will fulfill Michael’s wishes to ensure the funds are, in his words, “Well-spent in securing a more healthy, literate, rational and science- driven future for all Australians”.

Michael’s legacy allows the Academy to fulfill its mission to do just that, and it will indeed become a national legacy.

Throughout the year, we continue to reflect on our rich history reminding us of our responsibility to ensure we preserve this history of Australian science.

That is why we are focusing our end of tax year appeal on preserving Australia’s scientific legacy and marking our 70th anniversary to help us continue digitising our archival collections and reinvigorate the Conversations with Australian Scientists series.

I invite you to consider a gift to support the appeal and help us to bring more of our collections and conversations online, for everyone.

Through this newsletter I am also pleased to share the program for Science at the Shine Dome 2024, to be hosted from Monday 9 to Thursday 12 September 2024 in Canberra.

This is an event of great significance to the Australian science sector, where excellence in Australian science is celebrated.

The program offers unique and unparalleled opportunities to connect and hear from Academy Fellows, representatives from across the science sector, emerging scientists, and industry and political representatives.

It is a wonderful professional development opportunity for our early- and mid-career researchers. I particularly thank our partners who are supporting this exciting program.

My final message and sincere thanks are to you as our valued supporters, our esteemed Fellows, family and friends—none of our achievements would be possible without you, the beating heart of this organisation.

I sincerely hope to see you at Science and the Shine Dome 2024, and at our many other gatherings throughout the year.

Thank you for your continued and important support.

Yours sincerely,

Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC PresAA FREng FTSE