Funding for gravitational observatory to be built near Gingin

7/5/98

The Western Australian Government will contribute more than $500,000 to help build the Southern Hemisphere's first gravitational observatory.

Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan told the Legislative Assembly today that the Australian International Gravitational Observatory (AIGO), to be built near Gingin, would put WA at the forefront of pure science research.

Mr Cowan said the Government's $570,000 contribution would build a laboratory to house highly sensitive equipment to be funded from Australian Research Council grants and university contributions in excess of $2 million.

"WA researchers, led by Professor David Blair from UWA, have already won international recognition for their research in this field," he said.

"WA's observatory will link with others in Italy, Germany, Japan and the United States, significantly raising the State's profile as a centre of scientific research excellence.

"As well as participating in the world wide search for evidence of gravitational waves, the AIGO will generate some significant spin-offs for industry and the local community.

"These include the introduction of new technologies in areas such as laser systems and plasma welding and the development of new ultra-sensitive measuring devices.

"For instance, a sapphire oscillator developed in WA is now exported internationally.

"The observatory is also expected to become a significant local tourist attraction and a visitors' centre will be built to accommodate an estimated 30,000 visitors per year."

Mr Cowan said the grant was conditional on an agreement being negotiated between the UWA and the State Government.

Media contact: Peter Jackson 9222-9595