Introduction
Grace Stanke, crowned Miss America in 2023 and a qualified nuclear engineer, has embarked on a tour across Australia to promote the adoption of nuclear energy. Her visit, organized by the advocacy group Nuclear for Australia, aims to engage the public in discussions about the potential benefits of nuclear power in the country’s energy landscape.
Tour Highlights
Stanke’s tour commenced on January 29, 2025, in Perth and includes events in major cities such as Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney. At these events, she shares insights from her experience in the nuclear industry, emphasizing the role of nuclear energy in achieving energy security and reducing carbon emissions.
Public Engagements and Challenges
During a press conference in Australia, Stanke was interrupted by Senator Lidia Thorpe, who voiced anti-nuclear sentiments. Stanke responded calmly, highlighting the importance of informed and civil discussions on nuclear energy. She noted the stark political divisions on the topic in Australia compared to the United States, where nuclear energy is more bipartisan.
Community Reactions
In Morwell, a town identified as a potential site for a nuclear plant, Stanke’s advocacy faced opposition. Local environmental groups and residents expressed concerns about the suitability of nuclear energy for the region, citing geological instability and existing coal infrastructure. Despite these objections, Stanke maintains that nuclear energy can benefit towns by providing jobs for current coal workers and aims to alleviate public fears about nuclear energy’s safety and waste management.
Advocacy and Outreach
Throughout her tour, Stanke has emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the government, industry, and the public to address energy challenges. She advocates for nuclear energy as a means to provide reliable and low-carbon power, urging Australians to consider it as part of the nation’s energy strategy.
Grace Stanke’s tour represents a unique intersection of public engagement and technical expertise. By leveraging her platform as a former Miss America and her background in nuclear engineering, she aims to foster informed discussions about the future of energy in Australia.
