Highest awards for distinguished graduates

Graduations

Two distinguished graduates returned to the University of Adelaide to be presented with the University's highest award in recognition of the contributions they have made.

Professor Frank Fenner AC CMG MBE is credited with overseeing the global eradication of smallpox and controlling Australia's rabbit plague through the introduction of myxomatosis. In his 90s but still working, Professor Fenner is one of Australia's most highly honoured scientists. He was awarded a Doctor of the University (honoris causa).

Mr Brian Croser AO was awarded a degree of Doctor of the University in recognition of his contribution to the University community and the wine industry. Mr Croser is a well-known winemaker and, until March this year, was Deputy Chancellor of the University.

"The University of Adelaide awards these special degrees to people who have distinguished themselves in service to the University community or in fields and industries relevant to the University's research and teaching," University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha said.

"Professor Fenner's achievements and contribution in science and medicine are outstanding. Mr Croser's contribution to the governance of the University has been above and beyond the call of duty and his contribution to the development of the University's wine education and research has been significant.

"The University is very pleased to be able to show our appreciation and respect to both these men, and proud that they are our graduates."

Professor Frank Fenner graduated in medicine from the University of Adelaide in 1938 and completed his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1942. He has had an outstanding career as a microbiologist and world expert on pox virus. He was Chairman of the Global Commission for the Certification of Smallpox Eradication and, in 1980, he announced the eradication of smallpox to the World Health Assembly.

He has received numerous awards and honours including the Japan Prize - a prize for applied science regarded as the equivalent of the Nobel Prize. He has been made a Companion of the Order of Australia, a Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George and a Member of the British Empire.

Mr Brian Croser graduated with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 1969. He was head winemaker for Thomas Hardy and Sons before establishing the former Riverina College of Advanced Education's course in Wine Science and Viticulture in 1976. At the same time he, together with his wife Ann, established Petaluma Wines, becoming Executive Chairman in 1993.

Today he is Managing Director of Tapanappa Wines. He was President of the Winemakers' Federation of Australia for some years and a past president of the Australian Winemakers Forum and Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology.

Mr Croser was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia in 2000 and received a Centenary Medal in 2001. He was appointed to University Council in 1998, becoming Deputy Chancellor in 1999 until his retirement from Council this March.

Story by Robyn Mills