UOW hosts state’s first Regional Science Fair

Oct 25, 2006

An innovative science program aimed at improving the ways in which science and technology are taught in schools was launched recently with the help of the University of Wollongong and local sponsors, and this week (Tuesday 24 October) the Illawarra Regional Science Fair officially unfolded on campus.

Involving over 300 primary and high-school students from all over the state, the event showcased a range of student projects from the treatment of ingrown toenails to whether moths are colour blind.

Parliamentary guests included State Member for Illawarra, Ms Marianne Saliba, Federal Member for Throsby, Ms Jennie George and Federal Member for Cunningham, Ms Sharon Bird.

Over 100 judges also participated from organisations including UOW, ANSTO, BlueScope Steel, Illawarra Coal, Powerhouse Museum, Wollongong Council, the Board of Studies and teachers from a range of state, catholic and independent schools.

Organiser and local science teacher from St Joseph’s Catholic High School, Dr Kerry Ayre, said judges spoke to students one-on-one about their projects and assessed them on scientific process, explanation, written communication, creativity and presentation. The best projects were then invited to represent NSW at the national BHP Billiton Science Awards.

The Fair was an initiative of the Australian School Innovation in Science, Technology and Mathematics (ASISTM) project, which was announced earlier in the year by the Minster for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop.

A total of $33.7 million in funding was announced to cluster initiatives throughout Australia. Ms Bishop said the initiative was part of the Australian Government’s commitment to ensure Australia can build upon its scientific and technological capabilities.

“Project activities enable schools to come together with industry, science organisations, universities and others to explore ways to encourage a culture of innovation, attract greater numbers of quality students into teaching, improve coordination between primary and high school curricula and provide positive role models for students,” said Ms Bishop.

Sponsors of the Science Fair included UOW, Illawarra Coal (BHP Billiton), BlueScope Steel, ANSTO, Pfizer Australia, The Illawarra Mercury and Mister Ply & Wood.