Dr Richard Sheldrake is a leading figure in Australian primary industries. Under Dr Sheldrake's leadership from 2002-present New South Wales has developed an excellent primary industries capacity including through direct support to industry, effective disease control and leading developments in biosecurity, a major build up of research capacity, and effective extension activities. The capacity is characterised by the rapid translation of science and technological innovation into policy, and the innovative implementation of policy and practical outcomes in the primary industry sector. Dr Sheldrake is also a major contributor to primary industries policy and research nationally.