General News
24 March, 2025
Wimmera students compete in science and engineering challenge
More than 375 junior and senior students across the Wimmera region tested their STEM skills in the Science and Engineering Challenge, held in the Alan Heard Pavilion at the Wimmera Events Centre on March 18 and 19.
The Rotary Club of Horsham East partnered with the University of Newcastle to organise the event, which brought together students from Holy Trinity Lutheran College Horsham, Horsham College, Saint Brigid’s, Warracknabeal Secondary College, Nhill College, Kaniva College, and St Arnaud College.
Senior students competed on Tuesday, March 18, while juniors faced the challenge on Wednesday, March 19.
Students tackled hands-on science and engineering activities, including building wind turbines, designing electrical networks, constructing load-bearing bridges, and using First Nations knowledge to create traditional fish traps.
Rotary Club of Horsham East coordinator Tom Gallagher highlighted the event’s role in expanding opportunities for country students.
“It’s all about having hands-on activities and giving opportunities to country students to learn more, as they don’t have much compared to the big cities students,” he said.
“It helps students decide which career they wanna go in the future.”
The Science and Engineering Challenge, founded by the University of Newcastle in 2000, has grown into a nationwide program involving over 120 Rotary clubs, 30 universities, and 870 schools. In 2024, it reached over 59,000 students across Australia.
Students who score well in the Wimmera event will advance to the state finals, with the top teams moving on to the national competition.
The challenge continues to inspire students to pursue STEM education and careers while addressing the skills shortage in science and engineering.
