Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg has been honoured as South Australia’s Australian of the Year for 2026, capping off a remarkable journey that began with childhood nights spent gazing at the stars.
The Adelaide resident graduated last year from the European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut program, becoming the first person to qualify as “an astronaut under the Australian flag”. Her achievement has been hailed as groundbreaking, with Bennell-Pegg described as a “genuine trailblazer” and a source of inspiration for young Australians.
At a ceremony on Friday night, the 40-year-old, who grew up on Sydney’s northern beaches, received the prestigious award in recognition of her pioneering role in space exploration and her ability to inspire future generations.
She was joined on stage by other honourees: Chloe Wyatt-Jasper, a 16-year-old mental health advocate named Young Australian of the Year; meteorological researcher Malcolm Benoy, awarded Senior Australian of the Year; and community leader Ayesha Fariha Safdar, who received the Local Hero award.
The awards highlight the diverse achievements of Australians across science, advocacy, and community leadership, with Bennell-Pegg’s recognition underscoring the growing role of space exploration in inspiring national pride and ambition.
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