Vale Professor Tony Watson FACS HLM

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Professor Tony Watson FACS, former ACS WA Branch Chair, pioneering cybersecurity researcher, and esteemed ICT leader. As ECU’s Foundation Professor of Computer Science, he played a pivotal role in shaping Western Australia’s tech landscape. A dedicated ACS member, he was instrumental in advancing cybersecurity and IT education. His profound impact and legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Professor Tony (Anthony) Watson, a distinguished figure in the Western Australian technology sector and a pillar of the WA Branch of the ACS.

Professor Watson was a leading cybersecurity researcher, government advisor, and pioneer in ICT, international education, and commercialisation. His contributions to the field were vast and impactful, spanning both academia and industry.

As the Foundation Professor of Computer Science at Edith Cowan University and later as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), Tony played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of computer science education in Western Australia. His expertise extended beyond national borders, as he undertook consultancies and research projects across multiple countries, including Spain, France, Thailand, Korea, Singapore, UAE, Myanmar, and China.

Tony's dedication to the ACS was exemplary. He served as the Western Australia Branch Chair and was instrumental in establishing the ACS WA Security Centre of Expertise. This initiative positioned the ACS at the forefront of security advancement, fostering collaboration between academia and industry through monthly Special Interest Groups, workshops, and conferences. In addition to his significant contributions to the ACS, Tony also played a crucial role in the ACS Foundation. He served as the Chairman of the Western Australia Chapter of the ACS Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to advancing information technology education and research in Australia to the end.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Tony was awarded the status of Fellow of the ACS and Honorary Life Member. He was also honoured as an Achiever of the Year at the WA Information Technology and Telecommunications Awards for his leadership and high level of achievement in ICT at state, national, and international levels.

Professor Watson's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of IT professionals and researchers. His vision, leadership, and commitment to advancing the field of information technology in Australia will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working with him.

Vale Tony Watson