(1929 – 2022)
Owen graduated from the University of Queensland with a Master of Agricultural Science degree in 1956. In that same year, he commenced his association with the sugar industry by taking a position of Plant Pathologist with the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations. After taking a subsequent role as Senior Extension Officer, Owen became Director in 1972, guiding the Bureau for 18 years through to his retirement in 1990.
In addition to his role in the Bureau, Owen contributed to the sugar industry through various service roles.
Owen joined the Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists in 1965. He served as Chairman of the Publications Committee and Editor of the Proceedings from 1971 to 1981 and President of the Society from 1988 to 1989. He was awarded life membership in 1990.
Owen’s membership of ISSCT was of similar duration. Owen served as Chairman of the Steering Committee on Constitutional Reform from 1977 to 1980, becoming one of the architects of the modern ISSCT. He also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 1980 to 1986 and Chairman of the Executive Committee from 1986 to 1989. He was awarded life membership in 1992.
Owen contributed to Agriculture more broadly. He was a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology with editorial roles from 1955 to 1958, Member of the University of Queensland Faculty Board of Agricultural Science from 1959 to 1981, Technical Adviser to the Australian Development Assistance Bureau from 1975 to 1980, Director and then Member of the Management Committee of the Australian Sugar Industry Museum from 1974 to 1989 and Member of the Divisional Advisory Committee for CSIRO Division of Tropical Crops & Pastures from 1987 to 1989.
In recognition of his service, Owen was awarded Member of the Order of Australia as part of the 1991 Australia Day Honours for service to primary industry, particularly the sugar industry.
Owen married Val in 1952 – and their 66-year marriage was blessed with five children Jennifer, Mark, Debbie, Shane and Jim, 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
Geoff Kent