On 6 May 2022 at the Australian Fencing Awards, I was declared Champion 2021.
https://australianfencingawards.com.au/dr-john-pickard/
The nomination acknowledged my contribution to our understanding of the history and technology of Australian rural fences.
The award was unexpected because my research was little known outside a few historians and heritage professionals, although I had given bundles of all of my papers to farmers and others who I cold-called. That was my way of both thanking them, and by reciprocating and sharing knowledge.
Receiving the award was also a pleasure. It is gratifying to have my research acknowledged by the very practical fencing industry.