CHARLEVILLE has warmly welcomed Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg.
Born in Sydney in 1984, Ms Bennell-Pegg nurtured her fascination with space from childhood and went on to build an extraordinary career as a space engineer and astronaut. Her academic path took her through engineering and science degrees at the University of Sydney, followed by advanced studies in Europe, laying the foundation for a career defined by technical excellence and visionary leadership.
Ms Bennell-Pegg’s big break came in 2024 when she graduated from the European Astronaut Centre’s Basic Astronaut Training program, becoming the first person to qualify as an astronaut under the Australian flag and the first Australian woman to earn professional astronaut wings. Selected from more than 22,500 applicants, she carved a path that had never existed for Australians before, opening doors for future generations.
Murweh Shire Council Mayor Shaun ‘Zoro’ Radnedge said locals had been buzzing ahead of Ms Bennell-Pegg’s visit, highlighted by an event last night at the Charleville Town Hall.
“Her visit to Charleville has been more than a public appearance. It was an invitation for locals to connect with a pioneer whose journey reflects the very best of Australian aspiration and hear firsthand from a woman who turned a childhood dream into a national milestone,” he said.
Ms Bennell-Pegg’s visit to Charleville also included an address to school students, plus a LIVE interview on 4RR-FM in Costo’s ‘drive’ show.
PHOTO: Australian of the Year and trailblazing astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg.
POSTED: Thursday, March 19 2026