Gunggandji Aerospace’s 2025!
Wrapping up an unforgettable 2025 at Gunggandji Aerospace, we've been thrilled by the incredible strides that have rocketed us forward! As we gear up for the adventures awaiting in 2026, we look back at our team’s greatest achievements in 2025.
Take a journey with us through 2025's defining successes!
Raising Horizons Pilot Year
In 2025, Gunggandji Aerospace's successful Raising Horizons program commenced, delivering hands-on aviation experiences, industry site visits, and mentorship to Indigenous youth, particularly girls, from remote Far North Queensland communities. Through powerful partnerships and engaging activities, from helicopter demonstrations to explorations of drone technology and air traffic control, the program igniting passion and aspirations for future careers in aviation.
SPARAS Contract Announcement
We announced our partnership with Toll Aviation and the South Australian Government, staffing a new operations centre at Adelaide Airport in late 2026. This facility will deliver essential State Police, Ambulance, and Rescue Aviation Services (SPARAS) across South Australia.
As Australia's only Aboriginal-owned aerospace consultancy, we will prioritise Aboriginal employment, creating lasting career pathways in aviation. Managing Director Daniel Joinbee said: “This initiative marked a transformative milestone, driving generational change for individuals, families, and communities.”
This groundbreaking partnership highlights our dedication to innovation and First Nations inclusion in Australian aviation. Stay tuned to our careers page for ongoing opportunities.
2025 UNSW Young Alumni Award
Our Managing Director, Daniel Joinbee, capped off an outstanding 2025 by receiving the prestigious UNSW 2025 Young Alumni Award, recognising his leadership in aerospace and aviation.
With his powerful vision, "The first person to walk on Mars is a student in school right now. And why shouldn't the people on that mission be Aboriginal people?", Daniel continues to inspire greater Indigenous participation in the industry.
As a First Nations entrepreneur and founder of Australia's only Aboriginal-owned aerospace consultancy, his military background, strategic expertise, and unwavering commitment to empowering remote communities have driven the success of Gunggandji Aerospace. This honour celebrates Daniel's profound impact on advancing Australia's space capabilities while forging pathways for First Nations talent.
Award Success!
Our groundbreaking Raising Horizons program enjoyed a stellar pilot year in 2025, inspiring Indigenous youth with immersive aviation experiences and career insights.
The initiative earned widespread acclaim, securing three prestigious honours: Winner of Diversity Initiative Program of the Year at the 2025 Australian Space Awards, plus finalist spots for Best Indigenous Workforce Development Program (2025 Defence and National Security Workforce Awards) and Training and Mentorship Program of the Year (2025 Australian Aviation Awards).
None of this would have been possible without our incredible partners, NRL Cowboys House, Aviation Australia, and Rex Airlines, who helped drive real, lasting change in the industry.
Reflecting on an incredible 2025 across Australia
Gunggandji Aerospace stays firmly committed to sparking passion in the next generation of aviation professionals. By forging innovative pathways for young Indigenous Australians into aerospace careers, offering specialised aviation and defence consulting services, and pushing forward with cutting-edge research and development initiatives, 2025 has been a landmark year of growth and impact.
Gunggandji Aerospace is deeply invested in nurturing and supporting Australia's aviation and aerospace industries. A heartfelt thank you to our valued partners for championing our vision, and we are excited for even greater achievements together in the new year.
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