Lunar rovers and flight simulators were among the technologies QAHS students explored at Pacific Airshow Gold Coast on Friday.
Students attended the inaugural Gold Coast Students with Altitude Day, a dedicated schools program providing access to the Pacific Airshow and its NXTGN STEM LAB. The program brought together aviation, aerospace, space, engineering, defence and technology organisations in one precinct, giving students the chance to see the range of industries and careers connected to STEM.
A major part of the day was the Aviation Australia Young Aviator Hangar, where students explored different areas of the aviation industry and the pathways that lead into them. Aviation Australia was joined by organisations including Boeing Australia, Northrop Grumman, Virgin Australia, Airbus, Wisk Aero, Airways Aviation and the Australian Helicopter Industry Association.
Across the exhibits, students experienced aircraft maintenance through virtual reality, flight simulation, UAV technology and emerging approaches to air mobility. They were also able to speak with people working and studying across different parts of the sector and learn more about pathways into roles ranging from piloting and aircraft maintenance to engineering and autonomous technologies.
The Australian Space Agency's Roo-ver Pit took the experience beyond aviation. Students had the opportunity to take the controls of Australia's lunar rover project and learn more about the science, engineering and technology supporting Australia's involvement in space exploration.
There was also a strong Gold Coast connection through Gilmour Space Technologies. The company designs and builds rockets and satellites on the Gold Coast, giving students an example of the work already taking place within their own region.
The Australian Defence Force precinct provided another perspective on aviation. Students heard from members of the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes and other aviators during a student Q&A, followed by a session exploring the evolution of aviation technology through the Air Force Historic Aircraft Squadron.
The event also featured 2026 Australian of the Year and astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, alongside speakers and industry representatives working across aviation, aerospace, science and technology.
The range of exhibitors showed students that careers connected to aviation extend well beyond pilots and engineers. RAAF Aeromedical Operations demonstrated specialised medical equipment used to treat and transport patients, while the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service provided an insight into the aircraft, technology and teamwork involved in emergency response.
Students also encountered organisations working across education, training and industry, including Southern Cross University, Women in Aviation Australia, Air Gold Coast and White Star Aviation, adding further perspectives on tertiary study, training and employment pathways.
One of the more unusual demonstrations came from the Gravity Industries Jet Suit Team, visiting from the United Kingdom. The turbine powered suit combines engineering, aerodynamics and human control to enable its pilot to lift off and manoeuvre through the air, providing a striking example of how flight technology continues to develop.
With the Pacific Airshow taking place overhead, the day gave QAHS students a closer look at the people, technologies and industries behind aviation. The breadth of organisations involved also demonstrated how interests in science, engineering, health and technology can lead to a wide range of future study and career pathways.
Dion Obst
HOD Global Connect