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AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCE TURNS 50
19 February 2004

The Governor-General Major-General Michael Jeffery will today welcome Fellows of the Australian Academy of Science to Government House to mark the Academy's golden jubilee.

Fifty years ago at Government House, the Queen presented the original Royal Charter to the inaugural President, Sir Mark Oliphant, thereby founding the Australian Academy of Science. Foundation Fellows, Douglas Mawson, Ian Clunies Ross, Macfarlane Burnet and John Eccles were amongst those present at the ceremony.

At a reception to mark this historic occasion, the Governor-General will today present the updated Royal Charter to the current President, Dr Jim Peacock.

Based on the Royal Society of London, the Australian Academy of Science is an organisation of some 350 of Australia's leading research scientists from universities, research institutes, the CSIRO and industry.

'Although somewhat younger than the Royal Society which was established in 1660, the Academy has gathered an impressive list of Australian scientific thinkers over the past fifty years', Dr Peacock said.

'Fellows are elected for their personal contribution to science and are internationally recognised for their research. We are also working hard to support young researchers, not only to help in their career development but also because they have so much to offer.'

The Academy advises government on scientific issues, organises conferences and symposia on contemporary topics, conducts international scientific relations and fosters science education and public awareness.

The Academy has a program of events planned for the anniversary year, including a travelling exhibition which will be launched at the National Museum of Australia on 5 May 2004.

Photo opportunity and afternoon tea at heritage-listed Ian Potter House

• Thursday 19 February, 3.30-4.30pm, Ian Potter House, Gordon Street, Canberra. Afternoon tea with 35 Academy Fellows including President Dr Jim Peacock and Professor Frank Fenner. Celebratory flags and banners, the original Royal Charter and signatures of the Foundation Fellows will be on display.

• Thursday 19 February, 4.45-5.30pm, Drawing Room, Government House, Yarralumla. The Governor-General will present the updated Royal Charter to President Dr Jim Peacock.