Vale Professor Joe Baker AO OBE

I would like to offer my condolences to the family of Professor Joe Baker AO OBE, and express my profound gratitude for his lifetime of service, especially to sport in Queensland.

Professor Baker was a foundation Board Member of the Queensland Academy of Sports. As one of the longest serving Board Members, he was a driving force within the Academy since its establishment in 1991.

His contributions in the areas of sports science and sports medicine were immense, with the QAS Sport Science laboratory being named in his honour in 2010.

However, his influence reached far beyond the borders of the QAS.

A keen sportsman, Professor Baker represented Queensland in rugby league, as well as coaching for many years.

Professor Baker was appointed Chief Scientist for Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries by the Beattie Government in 1999, a position he held for many years.

A pioneer and world authority in natural resource management and the marine science sector, a decorated sportsman and distinguished professional, Professor Baker was inducted as one of the five inaugural Queensland Greats in June 2001.

Professor Baker died in Canberra on Tuesday, aged 85, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He leaves behind a truly great legacy not just as a distinguished scientist, but as a passionate and truly inspirational mentor who is spoken about with great affection within the walls of the Academy. 

ENDS

Media contact: Cat Milton 0410 644 113