Earth and Habitat (Commonwealth Union) _ In August, the Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government, and Territories, the Honorable Kristy McBain MP, made a notable visit to Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga to explore the cutting-edge research and teaching facilities specializing in science and agriculture.
During her visit, Minister McBain toured several key facilities, including the University’s Rhizolysimeter, Global Digital Farm, Veterinary Clinical Centre, Equine Isolation Facility, and the National Life Sciences Hub (NaLSH). She also engaged with top researchers working in critical areas such as biosecurity, grains, and parasitology.
Ms. Samantha Beresford, Head of Government Relations at Charles Sturt University, expressed her pleasure in hosting Minister McBain, allowing her to see firsthand the leading research being conducted.
“Charles Sturt University is at the forefront of innovation across several vital sectors, with our contributions to agriculture and science standing out,” Ms. Beresford stated. “It was a privilege to showcase this work to Minister McBain through our NaLSH and Global Digital Farm in Wagga Wagga. We had productive discussions on how the University’s research can continue to benefit regional communities in the future.”
A significant aspect of the visit was Minister McBain’s interaction with Veterinary Science students, who are addressing workforce shortages in rural areas across Australia.
“These students, once graduated, are eager to work in rural mixed practices, which exemplifies what Charles Sturt University excels at – producing graduates with practical experience and a commitment to regional Australia’s growth,” Ms. Beresford added.
Minister McBain acknowledged Charles Sturt University’s pivotal role in advancing agricultural and scientific innovation in Australia.
“The Wagga Wagga region has a strong tradition of pioneering research aimed at enhancing the productivity, sustainability, and resilience of our agricultural sector,” said Minister McBain. “It was impressive to witness the groundbreaking work underway at Charles Sturt, which will play a crucial role in strengthening and diversifying the future of our food production and agriculture.”
The Minister’s tour highlighted the Rhizolysimeter, the largest root growth and soil water research facility in the Southern Hemisphere, which houses 96 intact soil monoliths, offering unique research opportunities. The visit also included the NaLSH, a modern research, learning, and teaching complex designed to advance education and research in fields such as plant and animal sciences, food security, animal health, and environmental sciences.
Ms. Beresford concluded that the visit featured research presentations by both professors and PhD candidates, showcasing the University’s leadership in scientific research, including studies on the impact of sorghum-derived phenolic compounds on cancer, predictive analytics for rice quality, and research on parasites in Australian native ducks.
