Southern Launch leads the way with finalists at the Australian Space Awards

Amy Featherston and Eamon Lawson (top) and Nathan Drummond and Matthew Willson (bottom) all finalists in the 2023 Australian Space Awards.

Four employees from South Australian space launch company Southern Launch have been named as finalists in the 2023 Australian Space Awards proving that South Australia is the place to be for a stellar career in space.

Eamon Lawson, Regulatory Lead, Amy Featherston, Communications and Media Manager, Nathan Drummond and Matthew Willson, both Launch Engineers have been named as finalists in the prestigious awards.

For Nathan and Matthew, being named as a finalist in the awards is a reward for making the move from the Eastern states to Adelaide. Nathan says, ‘Growing up I always thought that I would have to move overseas to pursue my passion. Finding a job in the space industry in Australia is a dream come true and I’m happy to report that Adelaide is now my home.’

South Australian-born and bred finalists Amy and Eamon are also proud to put a spotlight on the incredible opportunities available right here in South Australia. Eamon says ‘The space industry in SA is thriving and it’s not just limited to Adelaide. We work on the Eyre Peninsula for our launch campaigns and it’s incredible to see the opportunities that the space industry provides to local businesses.’

The awards recognise outstanding individuals and companies making significant contributions to the space sector. Southern Launch is the only Australian space company to conduct three launch campaigns in 2022 and currently operates the only two licensed space launch facilities in the country on the Eyre Peninsula.

Throughout the award nomination process, Southern Launch was recognised for the community outreach programs conducted by the company.  Amy says, ‘In 2022 we engaged with over 2500 young people at schools, universities and events across Adelaide and the Eyre Peninsula. Community outreach is a key focus for our team and we love using our unique position in the space industry as a way to inspire the next generation to pursue a career in STEM.’

Southern Launch has also been shortlisted for Launch Provider of the Year and SME Business of the Year. The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Sydney in May.