Dr Garry Cook, Senior Principal Research Scientist
See Garry’s full research profile here.
What are your research interests as they relate to northern Australia?
I’m interested in the dynamics and management of the northern Australian environment, particularly in relation to its vegetation and how it responds to climate, weather and fire management. My whole career in the north has involved trying to understand how fire and vegetation affect the atmosphere, and how that dynamic can be better managed. The aim is to support not only cleaner air, but improved biodiversity conservation and livelihoods for land managers.
What do you love about working in northern Australia?
Northern Australia has the largest area of uncleared savannas on the planet, and I love the sense of space, the big skies and the vastness of the landscapes. I love to do research that can support Indigenous people in continuing to manage their land. I have been privileged to learn a tiny bit of Indigenous knowledge first-hand from people whose understanding and love for their country will be greater than mine could ever be. I love vast plains of healthy grassland with scattered trees. These are at their best late in the wet season with the late afternoon with dark storm clouds contrasting with the fading sunlight on the open savannas.
Current project
Completed project
