Centre of Excellence welcomes new face

MOUNT Gambier’s Forestry Centre of Excellence (FCoE) has expanded its specialist team appointing Krishmina Thapa as a Senior Technical Officer in Forest Health – a role focused on monitoring and managing pest and disease to protect the resource and achieve industry sustainability goals.

With global experience in forestry, agriculture, and plant science, Krishmina has expertise spanning plant genomics, plant pathology and forest health surveillance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry completed in Nepal and a Master of Science in Agriculture from the University of New England.

Prior to joining the FCoE, Krishmina worked with Agriculture Victoria in Hamilton and Horsham, supporting plant genomics and pathology research across a range of crop and forage species. Her work included advanced molecular analysis, disease surveillance, and field trials aimed at improving plant health and resilience.

At the FCoE, Krishmina will play a key role in forest health monitoring and pest management projects, working closely with research teams, industry partners, and the local forestry sector to support the long-term resilience and productivity of forests in the Green Triangle region.

Krishmina said her journey from Nepal to Mount Gambier was shaped by a deep interest in sustainable land management and plant health.

“I was drawn to the Forestry Centre of Excellence because of its reputation for high-quality, applied research and its strong focus on forest health. The opportunity to work on real-world forest surveillance and pest management projects, alongside experienced professionals, really appealed to me,” she said.

“I was also excited by the chance to be part of a team contributing directly to the long-term productivity and resilience of Australia’s forest industry. Being based in Mount Gambier—at the heart of one of the country’s major forestry regions—makes the work even more meaningful.”

Krishmina’s role will combine fieldwork, lab work and research support, including conducting forest health surveys checking for signs of pest and disease. She will also play a key role collaborating with other industry partners on forest resilience and pest management projects.

“Pest and disease management is vital. If not addressed early, pests and pathogens can cause serious damage—affecting tree growth, reducing productivity, and in some cases leading to widespread forest decline. This impacts not just the environment, but also the economic wellbeing of the forestry sector and local communities. By monitoring forest health and managing these risks proactively, we can catch problems early, respond effectively, and maintain the overall health and resilience of forests. It’s all about protecting forests so they can continue to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits for generations to come,” Krishmina said.

FCoE Director Professor Jeff Morell said Krishmina delivered a valuable skillset to the centre.

“Krishmina brings a unique blend of international and local experience, along with strong technical skills in forest health. Her work will be critical in strengthening pest and disease management research programs, which are essential for ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of not only the Green Triangle but Australia’s forest industry,” Professor Morrell said.

The FCoE has been established in Mount Gambier by the South Australian Government, University of South Australia, Green Triangle Forest Industry Hub and the South Australian Forest Products Association.