SpaceFutures 2000

University of Queensland Space Engineering students will participate in an international space industry conference to be held in Canberra later this year.

The SpaceFutures 2000 conference was organised by the Australian Student's Space Association (ASSA) to reignite interest in the Australian space industry.

UQ mechanical and space engineering student and ASSA Public Relations Director, Stephen Brammer said the conference would provide the opportunity for youth, government and industry to work together and re-establish Australia's position in the international space community.

"Our educational and community focus has been reflected by SpaceFutures' theme 'Education and Collaboration: Building a Commercial Space Industry'.

"It will also coincide with UN International Space Week, which will give youth a much stronger voice into the future of Australian space activities."

The three-day conference will run from October 4 to 7 and will profile the interdisciplinary nature of the global space industry with international presenters drawn from government, academia and industry.

Space Week Organising Committee President, Dennis Stone said the conference would have a powerful impact on the thinking of the Australian people.

"SpaceFutures 2000 is globally recognised as one of the first youth events connected to International Space Week. Hopefully the conference will be linked with other events around the world through satellite technology'" he said.

The conference has attracted numerous sponsors including The University of Queensland, Rydges Capital Hill Hotel, The Department of Science Industry and Resources, University of South Australia and Ansett Australia

The ASSA also plans to hold youth space forums in Queensland and Victoria aimed at advancing the Australian space industry through youth education and cooperation with the industry.

For further information contact Stephen Brammer on 0417 293 740 or Peter McCutcheon on (07) 3365 1088.