2009 McKell Medal Award

Bill Crabtree receiving the 24th McKell Medal from the Hon Tony Burke, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Bill Crabtree , known as "No-Till Bill" to much of the farming community of Western Australia, is an enthusiast for no-till farming and has played a large role in mitigating soil erosion, while at the same time improving farmer profitability.

Bill’s outstanding contribution to maintaining and improving soil health was recognised nationally when he was awarded the 24th McKell Medal. On 23 April 2010, the Hon Tony Burke, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry presented the medal to Mr Crabtree on behalf of the Natural Resource Management Council.The McKell Medal is a most prestigious award that recognises long-term commitment to excellence and achievement in natural resource management. The award commemorates the outstanding contribution made to soil and land conservation by Sir William McKell, Premier of NSW from 1941 to 1947 and Australian Governor General from 1947 to 1953.Bill Crabtree began his career with the WA Department of Agriculture as a researcher into minimum tillage for wind erodible soils in his erosion-swept hometown of Jerramungup, a region that boasts amongst the highest rates of no-till adoption of anywhere in Australia. As a scientist, Bill has generated significant scientific data relating to soils, and for over 25 years he has worked closely with leading farmers to extend his knowledge to the broader farming community.

Bill was instrumental in establishing the Western Australian No-Till Farmers Association (WANTFA), and developed most of the early no-till extension materials while employed as the organisation’s scientific officer. During his ten-year period of employment in WANTFA the adoption of no-till farming systems in Western Australia grew from around 20 per cent to over 80 per cent. He has also worked with other no-till farming associations across the country and is recognised internationally as an expert in the field.

Read a copy of Mr Crabtree’s acceptance speech.

In addition to this year’s award, two Certificates of Merit were awarded to Ms Lyn Dohle and Ms Lorraine Edmunds.

Lyn Dohle, from Kangaroo Island, SA, was recognised for her outstanding ability to relate to farmers and the wider community. She is seen by many on the Island as the “one stop shop” for advice, support and information. Her willingness to not just offer advice, but to roll up her shirt sleeves and get involved is appreciated by all.Lorraine Edmunds, from Hawker, SA, was recognised for her long-term involvement in biodiversity conservation in the Flinders Ranges region of South Australia. She has raised the profile of the negative impacts caused by the cacti, Opuntia sp., and has successfully engaged with the community stop the spread of this invasive pest. Ms Edmunds has been selfless in her commitment to the sustainability of the community, with an infectious enthusiasm and knack for working with people to develop solutions and common goals.