The newly incorporated South West Science Council has received a welcome funding boost from the South West Development Commission.
The SWDC, a state government agency, has allocated $25,000 to the Council over three financial years.
SWDC chief executive officer Don Punch said the Commission was delighted to play a role in helping the South West’s science base for the benefit of the region.
“There is considerable value in the existence of a group which promotes the value of science and provides a network of expertise to draw on and collaborate with,” Mr Punch said.
South West Science Council chair Professor Adrian Egan welcomed the funding, saying it will help attract support from additional stakeholders.
“The three-year funding provided by the SWDC is a huge boost for the South West Science Council, making secure the financial baseline for further growth of our activities,” he said.
“Our programs in STEM education, citizen science and support of innovation in regional industry will be enhanced by both the input of funds and the confidence shown by the SWDC in our science and technology agenda, through which we believe strong regional benefits will be achieved.”
SWDC strategic manager industry and business Patrick Warrand has been part of the steering committee which worked to set up the council.
“This is a great initiative to support. Science and innovation are expected to increase productivity, and inform critical decisions to ultimately secure our future about the way to manage and develop the region,” Mr Warrand said.
The Science Council was established to encourage partnerships with industry, educational institutions and government agencies to promote the value of science and innovation and their application for regional benefit and to encourage young people to pursue scientific studies and careers.
For more information visit swsciencecouncil.org.au
