Archive of past Queensland Entomologists
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Frederick Athol PERKINS (1897 – 1976)
Athol Perkins was born in Leichhardt, Sydney. Matriculated 10th in the state from Fort Street High School. Entered Sydney University 1916, graduating BSc. (Hons.) 1921 after interruption by 1918-19 WW1 military service. Entomology at U. Sydney was taught by Govt. Entomologist, Walter Froggatt, who became his boss when Perkins joined NSW Ag. Dept. as an entomologist in 1921. Took up UQ Research Fellowship in 1922 to tackle fruit fly problem at Stanthorpe. Spent 5 years studying seasonal breeding with Hubert Jarvis; began interest in tephritid taxonomy. Appointed UQ Lecturer in entomology 1926, headed new Department of Entomology 1952, retired 1965. Early years researched tephritid taxonomy, later Plecoptera. Spent WW2 years as head army malaria control training school. Gifted teacher and administrator. Ran regular field trips with students and developed large UQ Insect Collection. Had a common touch, guided many students into entomology careers, UQ becoming main supplier of Australian entomology graduates in 1950s and 60s. Started and administered both UQ Bookshop and UQ Press, was Science Dean and Treasurer of Staff Assn. for many year.s A founder of Entomological Society of Queensland and gave address at first meeting 14 June 1923. Served as Secretary (1929-48), Treasurer (1934-45, 1937-48) and President (1936). Honorary Life Member 1965 and honoured by biennial Perkins Memorial Lecture. Foundation member Australian Entomological Society and Life Member 1973.
Biographies: Marks, E.N. 1977. Frederick Athol Perkins 1897-1976. News Bulletin Entomological Society of Queensland. 4(9): 167-177; Perkins, F.A. Some recollections of 40 years in association with entomology. Ibid: 9: 2-6.