Waite legacy captured in new social history

Monday, 12 May 2014

The story of the University of Adelaide's Waite campus and the legacy of benefactor Peter Waite have been told in a new history book being launched today.

The Waite: A social and scientific history of the Waite Agricultural Research Institute relates the evolution of the campus into today's leading agricultural research and teaching precinct through the stories of its key characters.

Written by Lynette Zeitz and published by the University of Adelaide's Barr Smith Press, the book builds on an earlier history by V.A. Edgeloe, The Waite Agricultural Research Institute: The First Fifty Years 1924-1974.

"It's fitting that the publication and launch of this work coincides with the University of Adelaide's 140th anniversary year and 90th anniversary since the establishment of the Waite in Urrbrae in 1924," says University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Warren Bebbington.

"It's also 100 years since Peter Waite's extraordinary bequest was formalised and his vision for the future of agricultural research set in place.

"This book charts the development of that legacy into one of the largest concentrations of agricultural research in the world, and shows us all the tremendous benefit it has brought over the years in agriculture, food and wine.

"It's a tribute to the great stream of personalities whose dedication and commitment to science over many years has helped build this South Australian treasure. I commend author Lynnette Zeitz and all those who've contributed."

The Waite: A social and scientific history of the Waite Agricultural Research Institute is launched today (Monday 12 May) by Martin Hamilton-Smith, MP, Member for Waite, on the lawns of Urrbrae House, Waite campus.

It is available for purchase for $55 (launch price $44) from the University of Adelaide Press at www.adelaide.edu.au/press/titles/waite/ or at Dymocks in Rundle Mall.

Contact Details