On Friday 30 May, the Lizard Island Reef Research Foundation (LIRRF) hosted a lunch to honour the former Directors of the AM’s Lizard Island Research Station, Dr Anne Hoggett AM and Dr Lyle Vail AM.
Held at the Australian Museum’s HarbourView Room, the lunch was attended by over 60 donors, scientists, Trustees, museum staff and others, who gathered to celebrate Anne and Lyle’s 35 years of exceptional service and dedication to their roles. The event was made all the more special with Anne and Lyle’s son, Dr Alex Vail, flying in from Townsville for the day, and Anne’s mother Margaret also joining.
Museum CEO Kim McKay AO and LIRRF Chair Kate Hayward welcomed guests and Kate provided an update on Foundation matters. Anne and Lyle then stepped through a slideshow, sharing knowledge and stories about their 3 (+) decades of living and working at the Station. They were led in conversation by Trustees Charlie Shuetrim AM and Dr Penny Berents, each of whom have a long association with LIRS. Topics included their reflections upon arrival in 1990, their vision for the Station at the time, the shifts in research focus over the years, and development of infrastructure.
A full video of their presentation is available on request.
Two eminent scientists, Prof David Bellwood and Prof Justin Marshall, prepared short tributes to Anne and Lyle, each acknowledging the exceptional contribution they have made to coral reef science and its research community worldwide. It was hard to find a dry eye in the house. New Station directors, Dr Emily Howells and Dr David Abrego, also sent a heartfelt tribute. The 6 minutes video showing the 3 tributes can be viewed below….
Anne and Lyle presenting, with Trustees Charlie Shuetrim and Penny Berents
Anne and Lyle with son Alex and Anne’s mother Margaret
Luncheon gathering
Dear Anne and Lyle, congratulations on all you have achieved during your years on lizard island. It’s wonderful to hear the tributes mention how you respected and trusted all your students and researchers. Volunteering briefly on Lizard Island, you made me feel like part of your extended family.Best wishes, Michele
Hello Kate
It’s Lindy Randall ,
Anne’s sister.
This is a wonderful article, and lovely to read.
What a career!
I would love to have the video of their full presentation on that day if I may.
Thankyou for all your fabulous work too.
All the best ,
Lindy Randall
Hello Kate
It’s Lindy Randall ,
Anne’s sister.
This is a wonderful article, and lovely to read.
What a career!
I would love to have the video of their full presentation on that day if I may.
Thank you for all your fabulous work too.
All the best ,
Lindy Randall
Anne and Lyle will be greatly missed, by the yachting community ,that visit LI each year, many like our selves repeat visitors for over twenty years. My personal marine interest, nudibrachs was encouraged so much by anne, who’s passion was infectious, that in turn encouraged me to pass on that interest to many other yachties.i do hope the field guide will be updated and used in the future, such a wonderfull source of information. Good luck and much happiness Anne and Lyle , for the future.