Marine scientist Jess Melbourne-Thomas named Tasmania’s Australian of the Year for 2020

Tasmania’s Australian of the Year awards winners have been announced, with a marine research scientist taking out the top gong.

Dr Jess Melbourne-Thomas has been named as Tasmania’s Australian of the Year for 2020.

A MARINE research scientist has won Tasmania’s Australian of the Year, for her female leadership advocacy and work in marine sustainable development.

Dr Jess Melbourne-Thomas works with CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, using an interdisciplinary research approach to understand how marine socioecological systems respond to climate change and other human activities.

The Tasmanian Senior Australian of the Year is landcare activist Dr Graeme Stevenson who has promoted healthy soils in the state for more than 30 years.

Award recipients, from left, Will Smith, Dr Jess Melbourne-Thomas, Thomas Windsor and Dr Graeme Stevenson.

The Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year is social justice activist William Smith, who has empowered disadvantaged young people both locally and internationally.

Tasmania’s Local Hero is men’s health advocate Thomas Windsor, who has worked to raise awareness and funds for major health issues affecting men, including depression and prostate cancer.

The four recipients will represent Tasmania at the 2020 Australian of the Year Awards to be held in Canberra on January 25.

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