A fundamental aim of the Hub’s research is to produce high quality science which meaningfully informs decision-making on the marine environment.

In this context, the Hub employed Paul Hedge as its knowledge broker in mid-2009.

In January this year, Paul was awarded an Australia Day Achievement Award 2010 by Robyn Kruk, Secretary of the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA). He received this award for his significant contribution to enhancing the level of engagement between the Department’s Marine Division and the marine research community through his secondment to the CERF Marine Biodiversity Hub.

Paul assisted hub researchers and DEWHA by identifying opportunities for short and long term challenges to better manage Australia’s marine biodiversity. Paul demonstrated a great capacity to work across organisational boundaries, managed often competing demands and delivered positive outcomes for the hub.

“The award is a good reflection on the willingness of the Hub’s scientists to understand the business needs of its key stakeholders and the success of the hub in targeting its research outputs to inform DEWHA’s decision making processes,” Paul said.