NSW and ACT students draw their battle lines

Friday 18 August 2006

Hundreds of students from across NSW and the ACT will descend on Newcastle next week to battle it out in the 2006 Science and Engineering Super Challenge final.

Bob Nelson, Director of National Challenge Operations from the University of Newcastle, said next week's competitors were the best of over 200 schools that had competed in the various Regional Challenges.

"Next week, the Super Challenge will provide our future engineers and scientists with an opportunity to compete in activities such as building an airship, flying a hovercraft or developing a wiring system to light up a city.

"In their school groups, students work under pressure to solve complex problems. The best action will be between 1pm and 3pm when students are racing against the clock to complete their projects before their creations are put to the test.

"The rivalry will be intense with students from over 30 schools competing for the ultimate prize of going to Tamworth for the national Grand Challenge in October."

The University of Newcastle's acclaimed Science and Engineering Challenge encourages students to continue their studies in science related subjects to HSC level. Starting in 2000 with 14 schools in the Hunter region, the Challenge was rolled out nationally in 2006 to 400 schools.

"Australia is already feeling the effects of crippling skills shortages in science and engineering. By giving students the opportunity to be a scientist or engineer for the day, the Challenge is making a quantifiable difference to the number of students signing up for HSC science related subjects," Mr Nelson said.

Schools competing on each day of the Super Challenge final include:
22 Aug
James Ruse
Arthur Phillip
St Augustines
Manly Selective
Tumut High
Mackillip College
Melba High
Ulladulla High

23 Aug
Whitebridge High School
Hunter School of Performing Arts
St Paul's College PM
Calrossy School
Glouster High School
Dubbo Christian School
Presbyterian Ladies College
Central Coast Grammar

24 Aug
Kotara High School
Lambton High School
Wadalbah Community School
Lightning Ridge Central School
Port Macquarie High School
Gilgandra High School
Wingham High School
Oxley High School

25 Aug
St Mary's High School
Gosford High School
Narrabri High School
St Columba's Anglican College
Dubbo Senior Campus
Broken Hill High School
Muswellbrook High School
The Armidale School

The Science and Engineering Challenge is supported by local communities through Rotary International, Engineers Australia, Energy Australia and the Department of Education, Science and Training.

Photo opportunity: the 2006 Science and Engineering Super Challenge Final will be held at the Broadmeadow Basketball Stadium from 10am - 3pm on 22 - 25 August.

Media contact: Bob Nelson on 02 4921 6137 or John O'Connor on 02 4921 5439.