18/08/2026
**OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT**
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The Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory (GDCO) welcomes new CEO, Janie Plant
The GDCO is pleased to officially announce the appointment of Janie Plant to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Janie is uniquely equipped to guide WA’s premier science education and tourism destination into its next phase of growth.
She brings an exceptional cross-disciplinary background spanning two decades, highlighted by a distinguished 15-year career in the information technology sector, managing global and regional projects, followed by a career in the legal profession, specializing in technology law and emerging regulatory frameworks.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Janie is a prominent advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM. She serves as Chair of Women in Technology Western Australia (WiTWA), an influential, mission-driven organisation supporting a network of over 9,000 members.
As CEO, Janie will oversee the strategic direction of the GDCO, driving its mission as a crucial public interface for real world STEM education and its model for dark sky preservation.
ABOUT THE GDCO
An hour from Perth in the Yeal Nature Reserve of the Moore River Region of WA, the Gravity Discovery Centre and Observatory is a premier, not-for-profit science education facility. It provides meaningful, hands-on experiences across all sciences, specialising in astronomy, physics and biodiversity.
Sharing the site with dedicated teams from UWA, the Australian International Gravitational Observatory (AIGO) and the Zadko Telescope, the Centre serves as a critical link for future education and career pathways in physics, astronomy, and digital technologies.
"The future of STEM in WA is very close to my heart, and I look forward to combining my technology, project management, and leadership backgrounds to create great outcomes for our visitors, our community, and the broader scientific sector," said Janie.