Keynote Speakers 2011
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Professor Barry Brook, a leading environmental scientist and modeller, is director of climate science at the University of Adelaide’s Environment Institute. He’s published three books, over 170 refereed scientific papers and regularly writes popular articles for the media. Prof. Brook has received a number of distinguished awards for his research excellence and public outreach, including the Australian Academy of Science Fenner Medal and the 2010 Community Science Educator of the Year. His research interests are climate change impacts, simulation modelling, energy systems analysis (with a focus on nuclear power), and synergistic human impacts on the biosphere. He runs a popular climate science and energy options blog at http://bravenewclimate.com
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On 25 May, 2010, Katie Sarah summitted Mt Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8848m, and became the first South Australian (and seventh Australian) woman to do so. After working in finance and accounting for a number of years whilst raising a family, Katie’s career direction took an unexpected turn. Always one to take on a challenge, she decided to try a different industry and take on a sales role in Adventure Travel. This was prompted by her love of the outdoors, including rock climbing, marathons, triathlons, and other endurance events. |
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Rod Hook is one of South Australia’s most highly respected senior public servants with an unrivalled reputation for delivering major projects and programs that is recognised at the highest levels of both State and Federal Government. As the Deputy Chief Executive of the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure, Rod heads up the Office of Major Projects and Infrastructure and the Public Transport Services Division. From here he oversees the unprecedented $2.6 billion investment to rebuild Adelaide’s public transport network. He is also South Australia’s Rail Commissioner and as the State’s Coordinator-General for the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan, is delivering a $2 Billion program of works with nationally recognised efficiency. Most recently Rod was personally invited by South Australian Premier Mike Rann and State Infrastructure Minister, Patrick Conlon to drive the State Government’s $535 million upgrade of the iconic Adelaide Oval. Rod has been responsible for delivering a range of major infrastructure projects that have changed the way people live, work and do business in Adelaide. These include the Port River Expressway, the Glenelg Tramline Extensions to Victoria Square and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre the Gallipoli Underpass and most recently South Australia’s FINA compliant State Aquatic Centre and GP Plus Health Care Centre. Rod graduated from the University of Adelaide with Honours in Civil Engineering. |
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