This inaugural awards program, hosted by Space Connect and principal partner KBR, successfully celebrated an exceptional field of over 120 finalists shortlisted from over 366 submissions representing 60 companies, across the length and breadth of Australia's growing space industry.
The awards were also supported by the Australian Space Agency and the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA), the government and industry peak body, which provide a pivotal role in providing the policy direction and support for developing the nation's industry.
Joe Vince, head of strategy, defence and aerospace, Momentum Media, said, "On behalf of Space Connect, I would like to congratulate all of this year's winners and finalists on the outstanding work they do transforming the face and nature of Australia's space industry."
The inaugural awards covered categories including primes, SMEs, manufacturing businesses, academic institutions and associations through to high-performing individuals such as executives, rising stars, students, scientists, technicians and academics.
"The backing of the Australian Space Agency plus the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA) as supporting partners of the Australian Space Awards is testament to the collective drive of the sector to realise a robust, globally-competitive domestic space industry," Vince added.
Steve Kuper, editor and analyst, Space Connect, echoed the sentiments of Vince, saying, "Australia's space industry is at the forefront of the nation's post-COVID economic recovery efforts, being able to recognise the skills, knowledge, expertise and diversity of Australia's rapidly growing space sector in a COVID-safe manner is fantastic, despite the challenges facing the nation."
This inaugural awards platform is designed to recognise professionals and organisations and covers 20+ categories focusing on all facets of the space industry. The awards celebrates the best of the best in Australia’s space industry and will recognise the outstanding contribution of professionals and businesses working within the industry across 22 categories.
"I would like to thank the partners who helped make the Australian Space Awards such a roaring success and all the winners and finalists who helped to make the evening a roaring success, we are looking forward to seeing the industry get behind the awards in 2021, with a more hotly contested race," Kuper said.
Winning a Space Award will be a desirable accolade for both individuals and businesses seeking to forge their role in the space industry.
A full list of the winners for the inaugural Australian Space Awards can be found here.
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