The Australian agricultural innovations system features unique institutional arrangements shaped by diverse research challenges, institutional environments, and engagements with farmers and the industry. This has resulted in collaborations between state departments, universities and other industry stakeholders taking different forms.
In this webinar, Professor Matthew Morrell, Director of the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), will reflect on the evolution of the long-standing collaboration between the University of Queensland and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries. Dr Kelly Pearce, Director of the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC), will share insights into the distinctive design and initial trajectory of WAARC, connecting multiple universities, research bodies, and industry players in Western Australia. Both speakers will also delve into the conditions for the success of collaboration with state departments and discuss their relevance to Australia’s neighbouring regions.
Speakers
Professor Matthew Morrell
Director, The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), University of Queensland
Professor Matthew Morell has had an extensive career over four decades characterised by his focus on conducting and leading high-quality agricultural research that delivers benefits to the agriculture and food sectors, and to consumers. In leadership, Professor Morell has a track record in developing effective teams and working with institutions and their stakeholders to deliver innovations for the future.
As Director of QAAFI, Professor Morell is highly motivated by the opportunity to lead research programs that provide research and knowledge based solutions to many of the major big challenges of our times, including enhancing both profitability and sustainability in agricultural production, providing improved nutrition, building resilience in the face of climate change, and reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture, all in ways that protect and build the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
Dr Kelly Pearce
Director, WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC)
Dr Kelly Pearce has worked in Agricultural Research for over 23-years at university and industry level and continues to coordinate several regional science and innovation projects. Kelly has recently been appointed at the inaugural Director of the Western Australian Agricultural Research Collaboration.
Kelly recently retired from her role as Chief Executive Officer of The Facey Group which is a non-for-profit Agricultural Research and Development organisation based in Wickepin, WA. Kelly holds a number of industry positions including: Ministerial appointments to the Biosecurity Council of WA, and the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee. Kelly is a 2012 Nuffield Scholar, Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and previously a Research Fellow with the Australian Farm Institute. Kelly is also a Grain and Sheep Producer from Yealering in Western Australia with her family.