Its 2008 honours list is headed by Alan Dyce who has been awarded the Australian Medal of Agriculture Science.

Fellows of the Australian Institute of Agriculture Science and Technology were awarded to Geoff Thomas, William Lewis, Dr Richard Luke and Dr Peter Allsopp.

The Australian Medal of Agricultural Science was first awarded in 1948 to Sir Samuel Wadham.

Ever since it has helped recognise the enormous contribution that agricultural scientists makes to the Australian lifestyle and economy.

This year's winner, Mr Dyce, stands as one of the most distinguished entomologists that Australia has produced.

Mr Dyce is recognised globally as a leading authority on Culicoides biting midges and other blood sucking insects, which are primary transmitters of significant livestock diseases such as Blue Tongue.

His work is largely responsible for the ongoing zonal bluetongue-free status of Australia, which allows the export of live sheep and cattle from this country.

Of the fellows, Geoff Thomas has a distinguished 40-year career as an agricultural scientist, and is a recognised leader in agriculture across south eastern Australia.

Mr Thomas liaises with farm industry groups, research bodies and government and has been involved over the years in the development of AIAST policies on agricultural education and training and the adoption of genetically modified crops in Australia.

William Lewis is recognised for contributing to improvements in the agri-food sector in Victoria and southern NSW.

Mr Lewis has encouraged technology transfer and the application of new knowledge, thus bringing improvements in quality, safety and legal standards for the food we eat.

Dr Richard Luke is recognised for his dedication to agriculture across many sectors.

He has managed a large university residential college mentoring rural students on campus and been involved in ground breaking research in basic bacterial metabolism, especially as it relates to food safety.

Dr Peter Allsopp has made major contributions in the field of integrated pest management in a wide range of the most important crops grown in northern Australia, including grains, oilseed, cotton and sugarcane.