Alumnus honoured for global services in veterinary science
A former Veterinary Science student who was instrumental in introducing a new vaccine against a highly-contagious bird disease in Ghana, and who was jointly responsible for developing a reliable methodology to reduce cyanide levels in one of Mozambique’s staple foods, has been recognised for his outstanding achievements by being awarded one of Australia’s premier veterinary accolades.
Dr Stewart Routledge, 62, was presented with the Kesteven Medal at the Australian Veterinary Association’s (AVA) Annual Conference awards ceremony in Perth on Thursday 29 May.
The prestigious award is jointly presented by the AVA and the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists to individuals who have contributed to international veterinary science through technical and scientific help to developing countries.
Dr Routledge graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 1973. He then practised for a number of years at the Maffra Veterinary Centre in Victoria, before joining the Australian International Development Assistance Bureau (AIDAB).
This is where his passion to help communities and individuals in developing countries emerged. He has since spent almost his entire veterinary career working on global veterinary and general poultry and livestock development projects to help people in need in countries such as Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
He said one of his proudest veterinary achievements was being the founder of the not-for-profit organisation – the Kyeema Foundation, which was created in 2003, and its subsidiary, the International Rural Poultry Centre. “In just five years, the Foundation has assisted international developing communities to help themselves, by establishing successful activities such as chicken rearing and vaccination, providing assistance to AIDS orphans and undertaking research to reduce cyanide toxicity from eating the woody shrub cassava.”
On receiving the award, he said: “My career as a veterinarian has provided me with a fortunate lifestyle and livelihood. I was honoured to receive the Kestevan Medal, not only for myself and for my family, but also for all the people that have supported me in my career both in Australia and internationally.”
Dr Routledge is currently based in Dubai, where he is the Regional Director of a leading global development management company – GRM International. He also serves on the board of directors of the University of Wollongong’s Illawarra Technology Corporation.
Photo: President of the AVA, Dr Diane Sheehan presents Dr Stewart Routledge with his award.
Contact: Andrea Jones
Phone: 8344 7844