The Federal Minister for Climate Change and Water, the Hon. Penny Wong, recently announced the death of one of Australia’s most outstanding scientists and communicators, Professor Peter Cullen. The following item was released from the Minister on March 14, 2008.

“It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing last night of Peter Cullen.
Professor Cullen was a unique and courageous Australian scientist who bridged the gap between the worlds of science and politics.

To use his own words, he felt an obligation in “speaking truth to power”.

As a Commissioner for the National Water Commission, and in many other roles, he made a powerful contribution to national water reform.

As an internationally renowned freshwater ecologist working in the area of water in the landscape, Professor Cullen’s scientific work gave Australians a new understanding of the fragile nature of our rivers and wetland systems.

Through his research and teaching career, he was an inspiration to the many students he mentored.

Professor Cullen grew up on the land himself and understood that the concerns of farming communities did not have to be in conflict with ecological concerns.

Over the last decade, as Australia’s water crisis worsened, Professor Cullen became a very public and accessible voice for science and for the environment.

Whether it was in the media, in public debates, or in country halls, Professor Cullen had a rare talent for explaining complex problems and the solutions offered by science.

Recognising the need for scientists to advocate for important scientific causes, Professor Cullen was a founding member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists.

He was honoured in his lifetime by numerous awards – from Officer of the Order of Australia, scientific accolades, and a Prime Minister's Prize for Environmentalist of the Year in 2001.

Professor Cullen will be remembered for his enormous contribution to science, to water reform, and to our nation.

My thoughts are with his family and his many friends. He will be sorely missed.”