Pat Hannah, CSIRO Publishing Email: pat.hannah@csiro.au
The launch of The Rangeland Journal Student Paper Prize in 2026 reflects the journal’s commitment to supporting the next generation of rangeland researchers and celebrating the important contributions they make to the field. As a not-for-profit publisher, CSIRO Publishing is passionate about fostering high-quality research and creating opportunities for emerging scientists to gain recognition for their work. This new award is one small but meaningful way we can shine a spotlight on talented early-career researchers and acknowledge the impact they are already having on the future of rangeland management.
First awarded in 2026 for papers published in 2024 and 2025, the annual prize will recognises outstanding student-led research that advances understanding of the biophysical, social, cultural, economic and policy influences affecting rangelands. Eligible papers were assessed on their scientific contribution, relevance and impact, methodological rigour, clarity of presentation and quality of writing.
The inaugural winner of the award is, “Arid erosion mapping: comparing LiDAR and structure from motion” by Angus Retallack from the University of Adelaide and his collaborators, Dillon Campbell, Graeme Finlayson, Ramesh Raja Segaran, Bertram Ostendorf, Molly Hennekam, Sami Rifai and Megan Lewis. This paper perfectly illustrates the spirit of the award, investigating the use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) to monitor gully erosion in Australia’s arid rangelands. The research compared two rapidly emerging technologies, LiDAR and Structure from Motion (SfM), to determine the most effective way to measure and monitor erosion across vulnerable landscapes.
Read the Open Access paper here: Arid erosion mapping: comparing LiDAR and structure from motion | The Rangeland Journal | ConnectSci
Working in the southern Australian arid zone, the paper demonstrates that SfM can deliver highly accurate digital surface models while remaining simpler and more cost-effective than LiDAR. The study provides valuable insights into survey design and shows how UAV technologies can help land managers better detect erosion, evaluate management interventions and make more informed decisions over time.
Combining practical application, innovative methodology and clear benefits for rangeland management, this research highlights exactly the type of work the Student Paper Prize aims to recognise. It demonstrates how student researchers are helping to tackle real-world challenges and generate knowledge that supports healthier and more resilient rangeland ecosystems.
The Student Paper Prize winner will receive a certificate of recognition, a spotlight feature on The Rangeland Journalwebsite and a $250 CSIRO Publishing Book Voucher. More importantly, the award provides an opportunity to celebrate the dedication, creativity and expertise of student authors whose work is shaping the future of rangeland science. At The Rangeland Journal, we are excited to recognise these emerging voices and support them as they continue their research journeys.