UA31301 Impact of Giving A4 Book FINAL - Flipbook - Page 18
Impact of Giving
Passion for
palaeontology
sparks generosity
Dr Liz Reed leads a palaeontology research program
at the University of Adelaide, using fossils from the
Naracoorte Caves to illustrate how our climate has
changed over the past half a million years, and applying
these insights to guide modern conservation efforts.
Through their engagement with the Naracoorte
community – leading tours of the caves, explaining
their research, and assisting with field trips – Dr Reed’s
team has inspired one anonymous community member
to support their work with a donation, providing the
research group with exciting new opportunities.
“I’ve been working in the caves
for almost twenty-eight years
now, and a huge part of that
is engaging with the local
community,” Dr Reed explained.
“One of my current students actually met me at the
Naracoorte Caves when she was only eight years
old – she decided she was going to be a scientist
and now she’s about to complete her PhD.”
Dr Liz Reed
“This work opens doors for people. We hear
little girls saying they didn’t realise they could
be palaeontologists until they met us.”
The passion of the group’s researchers sparked
the interest of the anonymous donor, helping her
to understand the importance of the research and
motivating her to support the group with a donation.
This donation has helped to bridge funding gaps, keeping the
lab’s work alive during lulls between major grants. However,
it’s not just about survival – the funds have also empowered
junior scientists to attend interstate conferences, share
their discoveries, and ignite passion in others.
“Our donor could see the value in our research, and she
was particularly interested in supporting our inspiring young
palaeontologists who are just starting their careers.”
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“People think they have to
donate a million dollars to
make a difference, but it’s
not that at all. Even a small
amount of money can change
a student’s life and give them
some incredible opportunities.”
