Science Minister Dave Kelly announced that the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory in Gingin will receive $300,000 over the next three years to expand its space and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) engagement activities.
Located 70 kilometres north of Perth, the not-for-profit interactive science education centre has been inspiring local, interstate and international visitors for more than 20 years.
The centre provides engagement and education to students and the wider community in science, cosmology, astronomy, space and Aboriginal culture.
The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory’s activities support the WA Government’s STEM skills strategy, Future jobs, future skills, which prioritises increasing student participation in STEM to help prepare them for jobs in emerging and future industries, such as the growing space sector in Western Australia.
The centre works with the Quantum TX space business accelerator program, which receives support through the WA Government’s $16.7 million New Industries Fund, hosting program participants and providing expert speakers highlighting opportunities in the space sector.
The new funding will be used by the centre to invest in staff and facilities to grow its science education programs, with hundreds more being able to participate in Aboriginal astronomy sessions and up to three additional school education and holiday programs per year.
Students and public visitors will be treated to new and modern displays that showcase future employment opportunities and their connection to STEM education.
The funding will also be used for targeted awareness campaigns in schools and among the public, with the centre aiming to increase public visitation by 1,000 people each year.
Source: WA Government