Content
Teen scientists to address food leaders
Two Year 12 students from the Sunshine Coast and Hervey Bay have been selected to represent a University of the Sunshine Coast science education centre at an influential government and industry forum in Canberra next week.
William Martin of Sunshine Coast Grammar School and Samantha Mackie of Urangan State High School will join PICSE USC Science Education Officer Sue Lanham in making a presentation to the annual PICSE forum on issues related to Australia’s food security.
USC collaborates with PICSE, the Primary Industry Centre for Science Education, a national strategy aimed at encouraging more young people to pursue careers in food security (the sciences related to food, water and fibre, such as agribusiness or sustainability).
Ms Lanham said the USC group would present to both the national advisory board and the forum’s think tank between Monday 20 June and Wednesday 22 June, and attend a cocktail reception with federal politicians.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for these students, who will be talking to dozens of heads of government departments and research and development professionals,” she said.
“PICSE USC helps connect high school students with Science studies at the University through industry placements, where they work alongside scientists.”
Samantha has been assisting USC PhD researcher Julie O’Connor with turtle and fox research projects.
Ms O’Connor is a Sunshine Coast Council senior conservation officer who coordinates Turtle Care Sunshine Coast.
“This placement encouraged me to follow my aspiration of a science-based career and to further my education after secondary school,” Samantha said.
“Science is more than a white lab coat and test tubes, it’s a pathway to amazing opportunities globally.”
William worked at Ecofish freshwater fish farm at Glenview, mentored by owner Rod Missen. The large commercial aquaculture facility uses latest technology and has strong links with USC.
William said the insights and information gained during his work experience would help him decide a future study path in order to target job prospects.
“I’m looking forward to joining the Canberra think tank because it’s such an influential meeting and I can help make a difference in the future food security of our planet,” he said.
— Julie Gatehouse