November 27, 2018

Science fair celebrates students’ creativity, curiosity

Budding scientists to take part in annual UOW Illawarra Coal Science Fair

Close to a thousand young scientists will put their minds to the test during the UOW Illawarra Coal Science Fair at the University of Wollongong tomorrow (Wednesday 28 November).

Now in its 11th year, the annual fair brings together students from schools throughout the region, enabling them to explore the world of science and create their own experiments and inventions.

Budding scientists will showcase their original projects, across the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with the aim of researching a topic of interest and then presenting their findings to the judges.

Students can explore such diverse fields as astronomy, physics, zoology, and environmental conservations, and provide solutions to the problems facing our world. There are more than $5000 in prizes up for grabs.

Professor Tracey Moroney, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, said the science fair was the perfect opportunity for the young students to put their curiosity and creativity to the test.

“This event regularly attracts students who have looked at a significant problem facing the world around them and tried to find a solution,” Professor Moroney said.

“The UOW Illawarra Coal Science Fair encourages students to think outside the box and develop their scientific skills, nurturing the next generations of innovative thinkers.”

South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal returns as the principal sponsor of this event in 2018.

Vice President Operations Jason Economidis said the company was thrilled to have supported the science fair for more than a decade.

“We are excited to be involved with an initiative that provides local students with the opportunity to explore the world of science, technology, engineering and maths,” Mr Economidis said.

“This sponsorship is a natural extension of our involvement in promoting STEM career pathways. The demand for skills in these areas is the way of the future for a variety of industries, including our own.

“Our employees get involved by assuming roles as judges, and every year they’re amazed by the enthusiasm and innovation of the students’ projects. We are pleased to play our small part in developing the leaders of the future.”

The day will also include talks from Illawarra Science Space and a tour of the UOW science labs.