Douglas W. Fuerstenau, a member of the National Academy of Engineering of the United States since 1976 is recognised worldwide for his contributions to mineral processing science and technology, to education and to his profession. During 22 years on the Board of Homestake Mining he fostered important technological innovations in Australian industry. His graduates and associates from 42 years at the University of California, Berkeley hold senior positions in Australian companies and Universities. His Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995 from the International Minerals Processing Congress acknowledges the respect he has earned from his peers around the world.