THE AGE (Melbourne, Australia) 11 October 06 Snake in parliament shock
(AAP) A python made it through Parliament House security today, but the only bite it took was out of a funding pie as the government unveiled the latest round of Australian research grants.
The scaly intruder, known as Ollie, was taken to the press conference by Melbourne University venom researcher Bryan Fry, to the surprise of Science Minister Julie Bishop.
Ms Bishop politely warned the three-metre-long snake that a wrong move could see it turned into a handbag.
Dr Fry's work in unlocking animal venoms is one of 1,154 projects to share in $365 million in Australian Research Council (ARC) grants, announced today by Ms Bishop.
Funded studies for 2007 include research into the impact of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef, the likely effect of cane toads reaching Western Australia's Kimberley region, developing turf varieties that require less water and an examination of Australians' retirement saving habits.
Fewer than a quarter of the record 4,834 applications for grants were successful - something the minister defended.
"There's growing demand for ARC grants and I think that indicates that not only is there intense competition within the research sector, but also there's healthy competitive environment in that community and that means that excellence will thrive," Ms Bishop said.
Many of the research programs involve collaboration between Australian universities and businesses, as well as international researchers.
Ms Bishop said the research promised new discoveries with the potential to change people's lives.
A list of the awarded research grants is available at http://www.arc.gov.au
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