Paynter's work of art
Respected barley researcher Blakely Paynter is the 2015 Grains Research and Development Corporation western region Seed of Light award winner.
Mr Paynter was presented with the award, made annually to someone who makes a significant contribution to communicating the outcomes of grains research, at Perth's Agribusiness Crop Updates.
Based in Northam, Mr Paynter is a senior research officer at DAFWA and has worked for the department since 1988.
He is a major contributor to the WA barley industry, which is worth about $800 million a year.
Mr Paynter is the lead researcher of a five-year GRDC-funded project in which he develops technical information on new barley cultivar performance, data to support barley grower profitability, and decision-making tools for growers, breeders and others in the barley supply chain.
He is also an executive member of the Grain Industry Association of WA Barley Council.
GRDC western regional panel chairman Peter Roberts, who presented the Seed of Light award, said Mr Paynter was highly respected by barley growers and others in the barley supply chain for the quality of his research and communication skills.
"Blakely is a meticulous researcher who pays attention to detail," Mr Roberts said.
"He is strong at planning and understanding the bigger picture, and its consequences on the barley industry."
