Young scientists off to National Youth Forums

(posted 18.01.12)

They find astro-physics, bio-medicine, and earth and planetary science fascinating: they are the cream of Australia’s science students and this month they have the honour of taking part in the National Youth Science Forums in Canberra and New Zealand.

Not one, but three Year 12 students from Matthew Flinders Anglican College won through the selection process as Year 11 students last year to attend the 2012 events, which are being held at the Australian National University in Canberra and at Auckland University in New Zealand.

Brienna Mortimer, 16, of Peregian Beach, is attending the Canberra forum from January 16-28, Justin Ho, 17, of Buderim, attended an earlier Canberra forum from Jan 2-14, and Bradley Stone, 17, of Buderim, is one of six students Australia-wide to attend the sister event, the Genesis Research National Science & Technology Forum in NZ from January 14-28.

Selection for the National Youth Science Forums is highly competitive, with only 576 students selected from 2000 high schools all over Australia nominated by more than 1000 Rotary clubs.

To have a student selected is a credit to the student, the high school, the Rotary club and the community. Successful applicants are usually good all rounders with non-academic interests including drama, sport, music or public speaking.

The Science Forum program offers students the chance to test-drive a wide range of universities and careers in the sciences.

Brienna, who sees science as “a whole heap of fun”, is hoping to study Medicine or Veterinary Science after school, and dreams of one day working in conservation at somewhere like Australia Zoo.

Justin is looking at engineering, robotics and mechatronics after he graduates, and is looking forward to discovering new technologies at the Science Forum.

“I expect to see a whole range of sciences that I haven’t seen before,” Justin said. “It’s always interesting to look at new technology. They will be a huge range of people with different backgrounds. It will be interesting to meet them.”

Bradley, who nominates science/engineering as his career path, will take part in a two-week residential program of activities at Auckland University, which aims to enthuse students to continue tertiary studies leading to a possible career in a science, engineering or technology related field.

During the Genesis Forum, students meet practising scientists; participate in debates and visit significant sites of scientific endeavour. They also meet with those of similar abilities and ambitions. Industry partners from areas as diverse as engineering, technology and medical research also share their knowledge and career enthusiasm with other Genesis forum students.

Justin was nominated by the Buderim Rotary Club, Brienna by the Noosa Heads Daybreak Rotary Club and Bradley by the Alexandra Headland Rotary Club.

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