News Feed

The Forrest Effect: 4 Years of Premier Science Award Winners

21 September 2026

Is there a Forrest Effect at the Premier’s Science Awards?

Four consecutive years of award winners suggest there just might be.

We’re thrilled to celebrate Dr Kit Prendergast, recipient of the 2026 Premier’s Science Award for Early Career Scientist of the Year.

A former Forrest Scholar, Dr Prendergast is a researcher and science communicator dedicated to the conservation of Australia’s native bees. Her PhD research explored native bee biodiversity, urban pollination networks, and the impact of honeybees on native bee populations. Today, her work continues to shape how we understand, protect and advocate for native pollinators, both in academia and in the wider community.

At the Forrest Research Foundation, we’re privileged to support researchers who push boundaries, tackle complex challenges, and create meaningful impact through their work. Over the past four years, that excellence has been recognised on one of Western Australia’s most prestigious stages for scientific achievement: the Premier’s Science Awards.

We’re proud to celebrate not only these award winners, but also the broader community of scholars, fellows and alumni who help foster a culture of collaboration and discovery.

The Forrest Effect at the Premier’s Science Awards:

Congratulations to all of our winners. We’re excited to see where the Forrest Effect leads next!