The Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) has launched the Jim Pratley Award, honouring a national leader in agricultural education and a lifelong advocate for food and fibre learning.
Presented today at PIEFA Conference 2025 in Canberra, the inaugural award was bestowed on Professor Jim Pratley AM, in recognition of his remarkable five-decade contribution to education, research, and sector leadership.
Professor Pratley began his teaching career in 1972 at Wagga Wagga Agricultural College, now Charles Sturt University. As Foundation Dean of the Faculty of Science and Agriculture and a long-serving Research Professor, he has influenced generations of educators and students through innovative teaching, research and mentoring.
Beyond the university setting, Professor Pratley has shaped national conversations on agricultural education. He led the NSW Ministerial Review into Agricultural Education and Training, helping elevate the importance of food and fibre in schools. He was a founding member of the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture and has served on boards and advisory panels across industry and research. His work spans areas such as weed management, viticulture, and rice production.
In 2019, Professor Pratley was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to agricultural science and education.
“It’s a great honour to receive this award. I’ve been fortunate to spend my career in a field I care deeply about — helping young people understand the vital role that agriculture plays in our lives. I hope this award encourages others to keep building those connections in the years ahead.” — Professor Jim Pratley
Going forward, the Jim Pratley Award will be presented biennially at the PIEFA Conference, recognising an educator who has made an outstanding contribution to food and fibre education in Australia.
“Jim Pratley’s legacy in agricultural education is unmatched. His influence has shaped generations of educators and how food and fibre is taught across Australia. This award honours his impact and will continue to recognise those who follow in his footsteps.” — Dr Cameron Archer, Board Chair, PIEFA
The award, presented to Jim by PIEFA’s Board Chair, Dr Cameron Archer, aligns with PIEFA’s commitment to building stronger classroom connections to agriculture, celebrating excellence in education, and inspiring the next generation to engage with Australia’s vital food and fibre sectors.
