- $350,000 investment to deliver tourism infrastructure at the European Space Agency's New Norcia Ground Station
- Project to establish a viewing pod, wayfinding signage, and upgraded visitor parking at WA's largest deep space facility
- Initiative will improve access, create educational opportunities, and strengthen STEM awareness, supporting WA's mission to grow as a global space hub
The Cook Government has committed $350,000 to deliver new tourism infrastructure at the European Space Agency's (ESA) New Norcia Ground Station (Yarawindah), opening Western Australia's deep space frontier to the public.
The project will provide a new viewing pod, wayfinding signage, and upgraded visitor parking, enabling locals and visitors to see first-hand how WA is supporting ESA's deep space missions across the solar system.
Yarawindah is ESA's largest deep space tracking facility globally and plays a crucial role in international missions, including the exploration of Mercury and Mars. Despite its significance, the site has remained largely inaccessible to the public due to limited visitor facilities.
This investment complements ESA's $30 million construction of the New Norcia 3 Deep Space Antenna (NNO-3). The upcoming inauguration of NNO-3 is expected to draw international dignitaries and space leaders to WA.
The $350,000 investment will generate ongoing tourism opportunities in the Wheatbelt, deliver benefits for local businesses in the Shire of Victoria Plains, and inspire future scientists and innovators by raising awareness of WA's role in the global space industry.
As stated by Regional Development and Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"This investment from the Cook Government opens the door for Western Australians and visitors to experience the New Norcia Ground Station firsthand and learn how our State contributes to missions exploring the far reaches of our solar system.
"By strengthening our collaboration with the European Space Agency and CSIRO, Western Australia is cementing its position as "the place for space" along with science and innovation on the global stage.
"This project is about more than tourism, it is about inspiring the next generation of scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will drive our State's future economy."
As stated by Wheatbelt Minister Sabine Winton:
"This initiative showcases the Wheatbelt's important role in Western Australia's space industry, while also creating new opportunities for students and visitors to learn about cutting-edge science close to home.
"Located just north of Perth, the New Norcia Ground Station adds another layer to the Wheatbelt's story of economic diversification.
"The new tourism facilities will bring more visitors into the Wheatbelt, supporting local businesses and strengthening community pride in the region's global contributions."
