Tornado GR4 Handover Tornado GR4 handover, engaging and encouraging kids in STEM and Carmen February 24, 2023 By Adam Brouwer A new addition at the RAAFA Aviation Heritage MuseumThis morning the Governor and Mrs Dawson attended the official handover of a Panavia Tornado GR4 from the Royal Air Force (RAF) to the Royal Australian Air Force Association (RAAFA) Aviation Heritage Museum.Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld AO DSC noted that “the sentiment behind the handover is one of generosity and a deep friendship and partnership between not just our Air Forces but also our Nations”.The aircraft served the RAF for nearly 40 years. It was also continuously deployed on operations from 1990 in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Libya and the Balkens before being retired in 2019.It is a significant addition to the museum, as the only gifted Tornado GR4 outside of the United Kingdom. It joins the previously gifted Avro Lancaster and Supermarine Spitfire at the Bull Creek Aviation Heritage museum for the public to enjoy. STEM learning and development for kidsEngaging and encouraging kids in STEM was the focus today when the Governor and Mrs Dawson met representatives from the Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE).Dr Newton Campbell is AROSE’s Director of Space Program, joining the consortium only four months ago from the US where he has been working in space research and AI.Leanne Cunnold is the CEO of AROSE which is working to help lead WA’s expansion in the remote capabilities and space sectors.Dr Campbell has spent many years in the US working to build curiosity and potential in school students by introducing programs to get scientists and engineers into the classroom, directly engaging with students and inspiring them to consider careers in STEM industries.He spoke of the connection in the classroom between young people and those willing to share their real life experiences, and the positive influence exposing students to those already working in fields of interest could have.Inspiring young leaders and helping children develop to their full potential are priority areas for the Governor and Mrs Dawson, who also shared their experiences and thoughts on ways to get, and keep, kids engaged in learning. The Governor and Mrs Dawson with Newton Campbell and Leanne Cunnold Carmen presented by WA Opera in association with Perth Festival.As the Vice Regal Patron of the West Australian Opera, Friday evening saw the Governor and Mrs Dawson attend their production of Bizet’s masterpiece, Carmen.Set at the WACA, the large outdoor event was performed by over 150 of Australia’s finest singers and musicians including local talent from the West Australian Opera Chorus, the WAO Children’s Chorus and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.Photo credits: Base Imagery and Owen Gregory. Post navigation An uplifting visit to Good Sammy Enterprises, and swearing-in Supreme Court Justice Fiona SeawardCritical minerals and trade with the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany View all Articles
