BALLARAT professor Martin Westbrooke has another feather to add to his cap.
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The Federation University emeritus professor has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday honours list.
He was recognised in the general division for his service to ecology and environmental management.
Professor Westbrooke was surprised when he received the official letter a couple of months ago.
“I am very pleased and honoured to receive the award,” he said. “I feel I have been very fortunate. I love teaching and the environment, and have been able to combine the two in a very rewarding career.”
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Professor Westbrooke retired from Federation University five years ago.
In his 40-year career he was the head of science and engineering and professor of environmental science at the Mount Helen campus.
He still has close ties to the university.
“I intend to continue my close involvement with environmental science and research,” he said.
Professor Westbrooke said his greatest achievements included his students.
“One of the most rewarding things is seeing graduates from the course taking significant roles in environmental management agencies and private organisations.”
Co-establishing the university’s bachelor of applied science in environmental management in 1978 was another achievement.
“I have also been involved in research at Nanya Station in western New South Wales,” he said.
He also contributes to a number of state and federal advisory committees, including the Victorian National Parks and the Victorian Kangaroo Technical Advisory committees.
Professor Westbrooke was born in London and moved to Australia in 1968.
He lectured in biological science at Longerenong Agricultural College in Horsham before taking a job at the State College of Victoria in Ballarat in 1974.
Between 1974 and 2007, he worked as a lecturer, senior lecturer, associate professor and professor.
He has been an emeritus professor since 2007.
Professor Westbrooke will receive his OAM at an official ceremony at Government House in Melbourne at a later date.
kara.irving@fairfaxmedia.com.au
