We have a new Australian of the Year, and she’s literally trained to leave the planet.

Astronaut and space engineer Katherine Bennell-Pegg has made history as the first person to qualify as an astronaut under the Australian flag.

Today we sit down with Katherine to celebrate her already impressive career, and find out what the next 12 months as Australian of the Year look like ahead.

And in headlines today, Police are investigating after a potential explosive device was thrown into the crowd at an invasion day rally in Perth; Scorching heatwave conditions continue to grip Victoria, SA and parts of NSW, keeping authorities on high alert; Israel has ‍retrieved the remains of the last remaining hostage held in the Gaza Strip; Video of ICE shooting victim Alex Pretti show him giving tribute to veteran; Raper Kanye West has issued an apology for years of erratic behaviour and antisemitic rants claiming it was due to bipolar disorder

THE END BITS

Support independent women's media

Check out The Quicky Instagram here

GET IN TOUCH
Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au

CREDITS

Hosts: Taylah Strano & Claire Murphy

Guest: Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australian of the Year 2026

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Group Executive Producer: Ilaria Brophy

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"We’re Space Tradies” Inside the Life of Astronaut & 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg

The Quicky