20/4/05
Fisheries Minister Jon Ford today congratulated Peter Rogers, executive director of the Department of Fisheries, on being awarded an honorary doctorate in Science from Murdoch University.
The university bestowed its highest award on Mr Rogers for his commitment to science and the preservation of fish and the marine environment, at their graduation ceremony held at Perth Concert Hall last night.
Mr Ford said the honorary doctorate was a privilege reserved for people who had made an outstanding contribution to the community.
“Peter Rogers has been instrumental in steering the Department of Fisheries and Western Australia into a new era of sustainable fisheries management,” the Minister said.
“His commitment to the public sector for the past three decades has been outstanding and he is rightfully recognised throughout the Australian fisheries industry for his visionary and intuitive leadership.”
Mr Ford said Mr Rogers’ dedication to excellence in research was highlighted through his strong support for the fisheries research programs at Murdoch University, enabling the institution to attract significant funding and the establishment of its Centre of Excellence in Fish and Fisheries Research.
The university had previously awarded Mr Rogers’ efforts in the field of fisheries research in 2000, presenting him with a Murdoch University 25th Anniversary Medallion.
Mr Rogers started with the Department of Fisheries as a trainee graduate in 1973. He has been the executive director since 1991.
“Since that time, Mr Rogers has led the department through rapid changes, as Western Australia took the lead in fisheries management through innovative and ecologically sustainable policies like Integrated Fisheries Management and the developing Aboriginal Fishing Strategy,” the Minister said.
“As executive director, he has encouraged the fishing industry and recreational fishers to embrace an increasing awareness of the ecosystem effects of fishing and the need to fish for the future.”
Media contacts:
Minister’s office: Bev East on 9425 4200
Department of Fisheries: Roley Myers on 9482 7235
