Chief scientist Peter Klinken, oil and gas veteran David Agostini and public sector commissioner Mal Wauchope are among the 36 Western Australians to join the alumni of recipients of the Queen's birthday honours.
Western Australia has developed a strong edge in resources technology but must continue to invest in innovation as it faces competition from other regional players and beyond, according to the Western Australian Energy Research Alliance.
Shell Australia has become the third major petroleum producer to partner with Western Australia's leading energy research group, in a move that is expected to provide a host of opportunities for local input and collaboration on the $12 billion Prelude floating liquefied natural gas project.