Academy Medal awarded to science and research advocate

The Australian Academy of Science has awarded Simon McKeon, AO FAICD, the 2014 Academy Medal for his contribution to Australian science and innovation.

Hailing from Melbourne, McKeon was named Australian of the Year in 2011 for his philanthropic work.

The Academy Medal was established in 1990 to “recognise outstanding contributions to science, by means other than the conduct of scientific research, by a person outside the Fellowship”.

To date, seven people have received the prestigious award.

“Mr McKeon’s extensive contributions to science and innovation, including chairing the 2013 Strategic Review of Health and Medical Research, leadership of the CSIRO Board since 2010, being Foundation Chairman, and now Patron, of Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia, and membership of the inaugural Bio21 Australia Board, make him a very worthy recipient of the Academy Medal,” said Academy President Professor Suzanne Cory.

“In addition, he has championed informed debate on climate change and provided inspiring leadership in the community sector, especially in the areas of health and disability.”

McKeon is also currently executive chairman of Macquarie Group’s Melbourne Office and chairman of Business for Millennium Development, a not-for-profit organisation that encourages business to engage with the developing world.

The medal will be officially presented to McKeon at the academy’s annual flagship event ‘Science at the Shine Dome’ in May next year.