AUSTRALIA THANKS THE WIDE-RANGING CONTRIBUTION OF MAJOR GENERAL MICHAEL JEFFERY

Australia has lost one of its best and bravest with the passing of former Governor-General, Major General Michael Jeffery, AC, CVO, MC.

“Australia could not have asked for a better soldier, a better statesman or a better person to advocate for the rural sector,” Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said.

“Major General Michael Jeffery was not only a great Australian and a respected military leader, but someone who knew the importance of regional Australia.

“He was Australia’s first National Soils Advocate, a position to promote the importance of soil health which underpins this country’s agricultural industry.

“It was a role he was passionate about because he knew the value of the land and its integral connection to Australian agriculture.

“By championing soil health from Parliament House to the paddock, he successfully changed attitudes towards soil sustainability and energised change on farms right across Australia.

“We cannot thank him enough for his service to this country and we appreciate the attention he gave to agriculture, especially through his dedicated attention promoting better soils and sustainability.”

His legacy will be perpetuated through a new award named in his honour, for which nominations are now open. 

The General Jeffery Soil Health Award was announced at the recent inaugural Parliamentary Friends of Soil function, an honour which was very much appreciated by General Jeffery and his family. 

“His name will live on not only for his significant contribution to Australia but also with this biennial award and the protection and preservation of one of our most precious resources – the very land beneath our feet,” Mr McCormack said.

General Jeffery was National Soils Advocate from October 2012 to August 2020, when he stepped aside due to ill health.

Mr McCormack extended his condolences to General Jeffery’s wife Marlena and family.