Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia’s first female astronaut, has been awarded the prestigious title of South Australia’s Australian of the Year. The recognition was presented during a ceremony at the National Wine Centre in Adelaide on January 19, 2024. Bennell-Pegg’s achievement marks a significant milestone in the country’s evolving space industry, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in this field.
At 40 years old, Bennell-Pegg has made a remarkable impact by becoming the first astronaut to graduate under the Australian flag. She completed her rigorous training at the European Space Agency in Germany, where she was selected from over 22,500 applicants. Her training encompassed a variety of challenging modules, including low-gravity flights, robotics, scientific experiments, survival skills, medical training, and centrifuge exercises.
In addition to her groundbreaking accomplishments as an astronaut, Bennell-Pegg actively champions Australia’s space program. She regularly engages with schoolchildren and industry leaders, sharing her journey to motivate young people to explore careers in science and technology. Her dynamic presence in the community underscores her commitment to fostering interest in space exploration among youth.
Other Notable Award Recipients
The awards ceremony also recognized other outstanding individuals. Malcolm Benoy, a meteorological researcher, was honored as South Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year. At 78, Benoy has dedicated decades to citizen science and volunteering. His contributions have aided climate scientists in preserving crucial records and data, which are now utilized by international researchers to reconstruct historical weather patterns in the southern hemisphere.
The title of Young Australian of the Year was awarded to Chloe Wyatt-Jasper, a 16-year-old mental health advocate. Following a tragic family experience with domestic violence, she has lived with mental health conditions and turned her challenges into a platform for advocacy. Wyatt-Jasper successfully lobbied Premier Peter Malinauskas to commit $5 million for enhanced mental health services aimed at supporting young people.
Community leader Ayesha Fariha Safdar received the Local Hero award for 2026. Since founding the Adelaide Pakistani Women’s Association in 2010, she has worked tirelessly to assist newly-arrived migrant and refugee women in adapting to life in Australia. Her organization creates a safe and inclusive environment, helping women navigate cultural differences while acquiring essential skills in language, education, and employment.
The South Australian winners will advance to the national awards ceremony scheduled for January 25, 2026, where they will be honored alongside recipients from other states and territories. This recognition highlights the diverse contributions of individuals in various fields, celebrating their commitment to community and innovation in Australia.
