Science champion saluted for contribution to primary industries

  • Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Dr Mark Sweetingham concludes 38-year contribution to the State’s agricultural industry 
  • One of the State’s most tireless champions of agricultural science and its practical application is moving on from his post, after nearly four decades serving on the frontline of research and development in Western Australia. 

    Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Deputy Director General Primary Industries Development Mark Sweetingham started his wide ranging career with the organisation as a plant pathologist 38 years ago.

    Dr Sweetingham worked extensively in integrated disease management, agronomy and genetic improvement, particularly in lupins where he played a critical role in the anthracnose disease outbreak response, before moving into senior management.

    Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan paid tribute to Dr Sweetingham’s contribution to the growth of WA’s primary industries, as both a scientist and a leader.

    Research and development continues to be a high priority for the State Government, which has made major investments to bolster WA’s scientific capacity and capability to ensure our primary industries remain at the forefront of global advances in agricultural science and technology.

    As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:

    “Mark is a respected researcher, who brought his experience at the bench and in the paddock from his formative roles to redefine agri-food and farming systems research and development in the new department.

    “He has always been a passionate advocate of the importance of applied scientific R&D to boosting primary industry productivity and global competitiveness.

    “Mark has worked tirelessly with academia, industry and the public sector to build a productive, sustainable future for our primary industries across the State.

    “He has ‘walked the talk’ as a champion of science and its importance to building a strong, sustainable primary industry sector that continues to grow and evolve to secure new opportunities and enduring growth.

    “On behalf of the State Government, we thank Mark for all his work over nearly four decades and wish him well for the future.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.