The 8th Annual Thomas Baker Oration began with MC for the event, Past president Peter Dakin reminding us in his reflection of the important contributions made by Rotary Melbourne members over the past century, including Sir John Monash, the Club’s 2nd President and Thomas Baker, and our 8th President, whose legacy is celebrated in this event. The transcript of Peter’s reflection is published later in this bulletin.
President Chris exchanged banners from Rotary Santos and Caxias do Sul, Brazil with Rotary Melbourne member Manoel Felipe.
After making the Loyal toast, and meal service break, President Chris welcomed the many guests at the event, including Dr Doug Hilton AO, CSIRO CEO, this year’s orator, and PAST Orators and, themselves distinguished Scientists - Dr Alan Finkel AC, and Dr Ziggy Switkowski AO. President Chris highlighted important Rotary Melbourne events in the near future – The Artificial Intelligence Summit, to be held at the Royal Society over lunch on 29 May 2024, and the annual Environment & Sustainability Lunch to be held at the RACV Club on 24 July 2024.
Professor Robert Medcalf then came to the podium as Chair for the day to introduce our Orator, Dr Doug Hilton AO. He began by elaborating on Thomas Baker's life journey, entrepreneurial ventures, contributions to medical research, and the establishment of the Baker Institute, setting the stage for the significance of the Thomas Baker oration.
In this context, he highlighted Dr Doug Hilton AO’s distinguished achievements, awards, and recent appointment as CEO of CIRO, building anticipation for Doug's oration on the topic "If science is to save us."
Dr Hilton began by delving into the role of CSIRO, emphasizing its mission to deliver scientific and industrial research for the benefit of the Australian community, touching on various research areas and the importance of inspiring hope. He highlighted the importance of doubt in the scientific process and emphasized the necessity to protect trust in science amidst challenges like misinformation and conspiracy theories that have emerged in social media platforms.
Dr Hilton paid particular attention to environmental challenges like climate change, extinction, and ecological threats, expressing concerns about the state of the environment and the need for urgent action. Contrasting the negative and positive perspectives, he called for a high-level vision, ambitious goals, collaboration across various sectors including indigenous communities, and the role of science in taking a better path for the future.
If you weren’t in attendance, don’t rely on this brief summary. You can view the recording of this iconic Rotary Melbourne event by clicking here
In thanking Dr Hilton for his inspiring Oration, Professor Medcalf presented him with a Certificate Club History book, and a token gift - Rotary socks, 200% Australian made in Preston by PP Phil Endersbee’s - Wilderness Wear.
Returning to the Podium, President Chris Sotiropoulos thanked all for attending this event and highlighted next week's Rotary meeting upstairs at Sofitel Level 35, where Dr. Andrew Watt will speak on the Snake bite partnership, saving lives across Papua New Guinea.
