• NSW Senator Dave Sharma visited Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga on Tuesday 5 March to tour the NaLSH and AgriPark facilities

NSW Senator Dave Sharma visited Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga on Tuesday 5 March to explore the innovative research and teaching facilities on offer in science and agriculture.

Senator Sharma toured the University’s National Life Sciences Hub (NaLSH) and AgriPark facility, as well as hearing from leading researchers in areas like biosecurity, health and food production.

Charles Sturt University Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon PSM said it was a pleasure to welcome Senator Sharma to the University to witness first-hand the nation-leading work underway.

“Charles Sturt is a leader in innovation across a range of critical industries, but our work in agriculture and science is truly remarkable,” Professor Leon said.

“It was wonderful to be able to showcase this to Senator Sharma through our NaLSH and AgriPark facilities in Wagga Wagga, and help facilitate meaningful conversations around how to promote and strengthen the University’s work into the future.”

Senator Sharma first toured the NaLSH, which is a state-of-the-art scientific research, learning and teaching complex constructed to strengthen and grow national education and research excellence in areas such as plant and animal sciences, food production and security, animal health and water and environmental sciences.

Charles Sturt’s AgriPark then showcased the University’s research and teaching in agriculture, offering Senator Sharma a tour of the facility and insight into the Global Digital Farm.

Discussions were also held around the University’s plans to establish an Australian Centre for Agriculture and Renewables (ACRA), as well as work already underway through the Extended Reality Centre (XRC).

Senator Sharma said it was impressive to see first-hand the cutting-edge research and teaching facilities at Charles Sturt University.

“The NaLSH and AgriPark facility showcase the leading work being done in areas critical to our future, such as agriculture, biosecurity and environmental sciences,” he said.

“Enhanced research and innovation are critical to improving Australia’s productivity and economic performance.

“The plans to establish an Australian Centre for Agriculture and Renewables and the advancements made through the Extended Reality Centre are promising steps towards promoting innovation and sustainability in these sectors, ensuring their success well into the future.”

Charles Sturt University Director of External Engagement for Wagga Wagga and Albury Mr David Bardos officially hosted the visit, with numerous other University executive staff and researchers in attendance, including:

• Ms Samantha Beresford - Head Government Relations and Regional Engagement
• Mr Nick Pagett – Executive Director, AgriPark
• Prof Christopher Blanchard – Professor of Food Science, School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences
• Prof Jade Forwood - Director of THRIIVE, Gulbali Institute
• Dr Andrew Hagan - Director of XRC (eXtended Reality Centre)
• Mr Jon Medway – Head of Digital and Sustainable Agriculture
• Ms Charmaine Carlisle – Laboratory Manager
• Mrs Aduba Collins - PhD Candidate, School of Dentistry and Medical Science
• Mrs Emma McMahon - Community Relations Officer

ENDS