October has been an extremely busy month, so I'm not sure how I can do it justice in 90 Seconds!
I have just arrived back on the Gold Coast after a whirlwind trip to the US, where I promoted Australian businesses at the world's largest Space Conference, the International Astronautical Congress in Washington. This was the perfect setting for the Australian Space Agency to sign agreements with the German Aerospace Centre, Italian Space Agency, New Zealand Space Agency and Maxar Technologies.
I also engaged in talks with the White House and NASA to discuss opportunities for our two nations to collaborate on the upcoming Moon to Mars mission. It’s all about helping create more local jobs and opportunities in this exciting and growing sector.
While in the US I also toured the TerraCycle offices in New Jersey and learnt about their innovative recycling solutions. TerraCycle is now partnering with Woolworths to grow the waste recycling industry in Australia.
Before leaving for the States I was delighted to celebrate some outstanding Aussies at the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science. We had a record number of female recipients (5 out of 10), including the top prize! Plus, STEM specialist teacher Megan Hayes from Mudgeeraba Creek State School received a highly commended.
And earlier today I was joined by the head of the CSIRO Larry Marshall as we participated in the STEM in Schools initiative at Tallebudgera State School. Similar events were being held throughout the nation to help engage our next generation of scientists and researchers.
The talent on the Gold Coast is always inspiring and I was excited to launch the first ever National Missing Persons Hackathon at Coomera TAFE, where ethical hackers used their cyber skills to try and crack 12 cases.
It was also great to discuss local issues while attending a breakfast with the Rotary Club of Burleigh Heads. Plus, I enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new connections at the Southern Business Women Connect Lunch.
It’s a privilege to be able to back local organisations supporting our community. I recently had the honour of presenting the Currumbin-Palm Beach RSL Sub-Branch with two cheques through separate Federal Government programs: $42,689.27 for The Ron Workman OAM Veterans’ Support Centre, helping veterans and their families; and $10,695.49 to help renovate their Spirit Den.
While it's been a busy month, I’ll finish with my regular listening post at the Pines Shopping Centre tomorrow – because I know how important it is to remain in touch with our local community.
Finally, a personal highlight was having the honour of introducing our Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the Liberal Party Federal Council, where we celebrated the party's 75th year. You can read my speech here.
Until next month,
