The Fund

The Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith Fund commemorates the achievements of two distinguished South Australian pioneer aviators - Captain Sir Ross Smith K.B.E., M.C., D.F.C., A.F.C., and his brother Lieutenant Sir Keith Smith K.B.E.

In 1986 Lady (Anita) Smith, widow of Sir Keith Smith, bequeathed her entire estate to the establishment of the Sir Ross & Sir Keith Smith Fund and directed that the income of the Fund be applied in perpetuity for "advancement in the State of South Australia of the science of aeronautics and of education therein".

Lady Smith recognised the need to stimulate local knowledge and innovation in aerospace technology. Her vision encompassed "each and every aspect of all means of human conveyance or transportation through the air and inner and outer space".

Australian Executor Trustees is the Trustee of the Fund.

A specialist Advisory Committee provides continuing guidance to the Trustee to ensure that the objectives of the Fund are being achieved.

The Trustee undertakes exclusive or joint funding of:

  • Appropriate education or research programmes in approved tertiary institutions
  • Scholarships or fellowships for approved research
  • Sponsorship funds for activities which promote aerospace technology and education.

Apply to the fund

Good News Stories

  • South Australian Space School
    Since 2001 the Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith Fund has provided sponsorship funding to the South Australian Space School (SASS).

  • Mid North Christian College
    Since 2005 the Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith Fund (Smith Fund) has provided sponsorship funding to Mid North Christian College for the development of an Aviation Pathways Program.

  • Studies - Cranfield University
    Read Mark Roots' story - from support through the fund at the beginning of his career to his experience in the Rotary Wing Test area at DERA Boscombe Down and Australian Aerospace.