Emeritus Professor Leigh Burgoyne AM

 In the realm of scientific breakthroughs, one innovation has revolutionised the way DNA samples are collected, preserved and stored: FTA paper.

This filter paper, developed by Professor Leigh Burgoyne AM, has become a global industry standard, and has had a profound impact on various fields, including forensic analysis, medical research, and genetic testing.

Despite his tendency to work quietly in the background, Professor Burgoyne’s significant service to science was recognised at an Investiture Ceremony, held at Government House Adelaide.

Professor Burgoyne was invested as a Member of the Order of Australia by Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia. 

The ceremony was one of six held at Government House Adelaide, and included other recipients who were appointed Officers and Members of the Order of Australia, awarded Medals of the Order of Australia, and received Bravery Awards. 

What stood out to Professor Burgoyne the most was not receiving his award, but seeing other people being recognised for their dedication and achievements. 

“I’m personally not very honour sensitive, but I do think it does the country good that people who have done something during their lives get acknowledged for it,” Professor Burgoyne said.

He was particularly awed by recipients Edward Blight, Henry Sever, and Henry Weir who received a Group Bravery Citation for their actions rescuing multiple people from a rip at Petrel Cove Beach in Encounter Bay, South Australia. 

“You don’t plan to do good; you’ve just got to be ready to do it,” he says. 

“The swimmers saw that they were needed and went and did it.”

Professor Burgoyne says by showcasing the accomplishments of others, the Investiture Ceremonies offer an opportunity for people to learn about the dedication and hard work that often underpins significant achievements. 

“These ceremonies really report to the community the fact that there are a lot of important things that people are doing,” he says.

“It is equally as good for other people as it is for the recipient”.