The lifetime achievements of Flinders alumna Professor Manny Noakes (DipNut&Diet ’77, PhD(Med) ’00) were recognised in the Lecture in Honour presented by Julie Dundon (DipNut&Diet ‘81), Director of Nutrition Professionals Australia, at the recent 2022 Dietitians Australia Conference in Adelaide.

Professor Noakes was a trailblazer, scientist, educator, advocate, advisor, and industry leader. She made an exceptional contribution to healthier eating in Australia and across the globe and is most well-known for co-authoring with Dr Peter Clifton Australia’s best-selling, The CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet – now into its fifth edition.

Professor Noakes said the tribute was a wonderful surprise and she felt very privileged to receive this recognition. She had these words of advice for students embarking on a career in nutrition.

“Now more than ever, nutrition as a science is evolving rapidly as we explore how to sustainably nourish a growing population. There are so many career trajectories in nutrition that make it an exciting career choice. Prepare for your personal beliefs and current nutrition knowledge of nutrition to be challenged as the science moves into unchartered territory. Be part of a new era in nutrition that will make a difference to the wellbeing of individuals and populations in a changing world.”

Other Flinders University alumni recognised at the Conference for their contribution to the profession were: Karissa Deutrom (BNutDiet ‘04), who received an Award of Merit, and Dr Merryn Netting (BSc ’86, BNutDiet(GradEntry) ‘89), who received a national Outstanding Contribution Award.

Read more about Flinders alumni and staff involvement at the conference.