“There are many issues involving applied science and engineering awaiting wise decisions on future public policy. None of these are simple or clearcut …
“One of the key objectives of this Academy is ‘fostering informed debate on technological science and engineering issues in support of national goals and aspirations’.
“Fellows of the Academy will not necessarily have a single view on many (or perhaps any) of these but, as scientists, technologists and engineers, we all have the obligation to seek the truth.
“Providing a forum for discussion of all views on issues within its competence and encouraging calm and dispassionate consideration of the differences is, in my opinion, one of the most important challenges for the Academy in the future.”
This description of the role of the Academy is as relevant today as it was when Sir Arvi wrote it and his sentiment continues to guide the Academy.
The Academy expresses its condolences to Sir Arvi’s wife, Lady Saima Parbo, their three children, Ellen, Peter and Martin, and six grandchildren.
The portrait of Sir Arvi is by William Dargie (1993), National Portrait Gallery of Australia.