OBITUARY

Joseph Baker died on 16/1/2018.

Dr Joe Baker AO OBE FTSE was an inspirational leader who drew on decades of experience to steadfastly protect Australia's natural environment for future generations.

The Great Barrier Reed has Dr Baker to thank for being placed on the World Heritage List. One among many of his outstanding achievements, the marine pharmacology pioneer appeared before the World Heritage Committee to laud its significance.

Not only was he an unwavering environmental advocate, he was also a passionate scientist, with nine professional appointments in 50 years, including Chief Scientist of the Department of Primary Industries in Queensland (1999 to 2004).

The reach of Dr Baker's influence was wide and in 2001 he was named one of the first five Queensland Greats.

In 1982, he received the Order of the British Empire for services to marine science, the Order of Australia in 2002 for contributions to environmental studies and chemistry, and the Lifetime Clunies Ross award as a person of national and international standing. The ABC reported that for Dr Baker, who founded the Great Barrier Feed Marine Park Authority, the reef's welfare was a lifelong concern. He was saddened to see the GBRMPA forced to convince the World Heritage Commission not to list the reef as "in danger".

"To me, this was a terrible insult to Australia and Australians," he said. "It told us we were not able to look after one of our most valuable natural assets."

Other organisations he was involved with include the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Australian Heritage Committee, World Wildlife Find, James Cook University and the Australian Institute of Marine Science. When he began his scientific career as a cadet with the CSIRO, DR Baker played rugby league for the Brisbane club Easts.

In 1961, he started the James Cook University Rugby League Football Club and developed a reputation for being a skilful coach, later leading North Queensland to a state title against Brisbane in 1971.

Dr Baker passed away in Canberra on 16 January 2018 aged 85.