CSIRO history revived in new book

Science in the Outback charts the history of CSIRO in Deniliquin, from its establishment in 1945 with the aim of assisting the development of soldier settler farms on the new irrigation lands of the NSW Murray, to its extensive research on the Management of the Rangelands of the Western NSW. It details the many organisational changes that occurred across its 45-year history and its major research findings. It also presents vignettes of more than 80 of the scientific and supporting staff of the 500 or so who worked there over that time.

Science in the Outback tells the story of an important part of Deniliquin’s history. It is widely referenced and includes many original photographs of major events and staff who were employed there.

Allan explains, “This book has been written for a Deniliquin audience, rather than for CSIRO at large. It is layman’s version events, not a scientist’s version, although there is much science mentioned. Many staff made their start in CSIRO at Deniliquin and then moved on to other places and sometimes to high places. As an example, John Philip, AO, FAA, FRS. This led me to write a few paragraphs on each member of staff that worked their over its 45 year history, including many of the support staff (many of whom were Deniliquin locals).”