Corporate

The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory (GDCO) is governed by the Gravity Discovery Centre Foundation Board who lead our strategic direction and growth.

The GDCO Board brings together scientists, educators, researchers, communicators and industry leaders with relevant knowledge, experience and professional networks.

We continue working towards developing our facilities, expanding our services and strengthening our capability to secure our position as the go-to science attraction in Australia.

GDCO 2025 Annual Report

We are privileged and honoured to have the support of four very special Patrons and Vice Patrons:

  • Patrons: His Excellency The Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia, and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson
  • Vice Patrons: Professor Lyn Beazley AO FAA FTSE and Emeritus Professor David Blair AO

GDCO Operations are managed by our CEO and Management Team.

Our History.

The Gravity Discovery Centre Foundation was incorporated in 2001 (under the Associations Incorporation Act 1987), and the public education/visitor centre (Gravity Discovery Centre) opened in 2004.

The objectives of the Foundation are to promote, encourage and provide appropriate opportunities for the education of the general community in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics with particular emphasis on gravity, astrophysics, cosmology and their relation to art, culture, aboriginal spirituality, and the environment.

Our Future.

The GDCO has a strong brand and presence which we will build on to expand to a highly regarded “Space and Gravity Discovery Centre”. The revision of exhibits, redevelopment of the Centre and increased focus on technology careers will be inspired by the full space sector supply chain.

Western Australia is leading the world in many digital technologies that will continue to power the State’s future. The GDCO is perfectly positioned to inspire STEM through space, physics and environmental science education. 

Our path continues to see our alignment with Aboriginal knowledge and connections to culture, strengthening our position as a premier tourist destination.

 

 

Acknowledgement

The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory is a not-for-profit organization whose success can be optimised by the input of those with a shared vision for our Mission, Values and Goals. 

The GDCO Board is acknowledged for their contribution.  As a Volunteer Board, their time, expertise and guidance is invaluable.


Grants + Funding
Australian Government, Western Australian State Government, Wheatbelt Development Commission


Corporate + Community Partners
Curtin University, University of WA, Zadko Observatory, Neergabby Community Association, Gingin Hotel, IGA Gingin, Moore River Brewery, Limestone Stud and Bird Park, Caladenia Mini Golf and Cafe, Local Goat, Shields Realty, Gingin Shell, Tourism Council WA, Tourism WA, How Ridiculous

Our Patrons

the Honourable Christopher John Dawson AC APM

Governor of Western Australia

Mrs Darrilyn Dawson

Emeritus Professor David Blair OA

Vice Patron

Professor Lynda (Lyn) Dent Beazley AO FAA FTSE

Vice Patron

Executive

The GDCO employs a Team of Staff comprising three full-time, two part time, nine casual and is supported by a growing number of passionate volunteers. GDCO Operations are managed by;

Janie Plant

CEO

Majella Heaton

Operations Manager

Richard Tonello

Chief Astronomer

Neil Gerrard

CFO

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is comprised of volunteers from varying Professional backgrounds, who provide governance, strategy and advocacy. Directors are typically elected at the AGM (but may be elected or appointed at other times through a special general meeting) alongside one appointment each from UWA and Curtin University - these are listed in the annual report, available on the GDCO website.

Howard Golden

Co-Chair

Susan Kreemer Pickford

Co-Chair

Andrew Lockwood

Board Member

Caroline Chapman

Board Member

Phillip McVeigh

Board Member

Gavin Strack

Board Member

Eric Flood

Board Member

George Heald

Board Member