Forestry Australia calls for nominations of forestry leaders

Friday 9 May 2025

 
Forestry Australia is calling for nominations for three of the highest honours in the field of forestry and forest management in Australia: the N.W Jolly Medal, Forestry Australia Fellows and the Prince of Wales Award.

The N.W. Jolly Medal is Forestry Australia’s highest and most prestigious award, named in honour of Norman William Jolly (1882-1954), who made a remarkable contribution to the development of professional forestry in Australia in the early 20th century.

This award celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional service to forestry, reflecting the diverse and significant contributions made across a wide range of disciplines and forest management activities.

Former winner Rob Youl OAM said the Norman Jolly Medal recognises and celebrates the increasing diversity of Australian forestry, and demonstrates that the breadth and philosophy of forestry training have wide appeal to employers and institutions.

Dr Christine Stone won the award in 2017. “I was honoured to be the first woman to receive Forestry Australia’s highest award, the NW Jolly Medal,” Dr Stone said. “Since then, the Forestry Australia Board Directors and Jacquie have made significant progress in promoting gender equality, both within the Institute and more broadly in the forestry profession. I therefore encourage the nomination of women for this year’s awards.”

In 2023, the NW Jolly Medal was awarded posthumously to  Dr Kevin Tolhurst, Kevin who was aware, and delighted, that he was receiving the Medal and sadly passed weeks before the presentation.

CEO of Forestry Australia, Jacquie Martin, said generations of foresters and forestry scientists were inspired and influenced by Kevin. “Kevin Tolhurst was generous with his knowledge and time, and ever the gentleman who was always considerate and kind. It speaks to Kevin’s intellect that he was nationally and internationally recognised as an expert in a wide range of areas – fire ecologist, fire scientist, professional forester, lecturer, practitioner, academic and collaborator."

The Prince of Wales Award recognises the achievements of an outstanding young to mid-career forest professional. This prestigious award honours individuals who have made significant contributions to forestry practice, innovation, and leadership at an early stage of their career.

Awardee, Jenna Hammond said she was incredibly honoured to receive the Prince of Wales Award. “I’m passionate about making forestry more inclusive and engaging for young professionals,” Ms Hammond said. “Promoting the benefits of active forest management and supporting and inspiring the next generation, especially young women, to consider a career in forestry is important to me.”

The title of Forestry Australia Fellow is an honour bestowed upon a voting member of the Association who has been recognised by their peers for their outstanding service to the forestry profession and to Forestry Australia. 

In 2018 Kerrie Catcpoole was awarded a Forestry Australia Fellowship. “I have always been proud to be a member of Forestry Australia as it is underpinned by integrity, professionalism, and people who genuinely care about forests,” Ms Catcpoole said. 

Nominations close: 5:00 pm (AEST) Monday, 28 July. More information can be found here.

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Source & image credit: Forestry Australia


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