DAVID BURTON WINS THE CLUNIES ROSS NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AWARD

David Burton, Executive Chairman of Compumedics Ltd, received a Clunies Ross National Science and Technology Award for his development of innovative sleep monitoring technology.

First awarded in 1991, the Clunies Ross National Science & Technology Award continues to identify exceptional people as role models or “heroes” who have shown outstanding personal commitment over an extended period of time to successful innovation involving the application of science and technology for the benefit of Australia.

There are no limits to the number of Awards each year, but the Award criteria are rigorous. Recipients must show outstanding commitment and have made a major contribution to the application of science and technology in Australia.

In 1989 David designed and installed Australia’s first fully computerised sleep clinic at the Epworth Hospital in Melbourne. This led to the creation of the first generation of David’s easy-to-use, stand-alone, portable sleep monitoring equipment. His technological leadership in the area was demonstrated in 1995 when his equipment was chosen to prepare NASA astronauts for Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions.

David Burton said on the night,” My continued conquest will be to produce more effective technologies to identify these sufferers of Sleep disorders.”

Sleep disorders affect more than one in ten of the world’s population and can lead to heart and nervous problems. Electronics engineer David Burton and his colleagues have revolutionised the way they are monitored and assessed.

David Burton said that he intended to work hard to prove his worthiness of such an honour. He said,” I accept this award on behalf of all those people whom I have been allowed to continue my work.”