Date set for Wide Bay Science & Engineering Challenge

More than 250 High School students will compete to power an entire city, navigate a virtual maze,  catapult a squash ball and design a bridge strong enough to carry a cache of gold during the inaugural Science and Engineering Challenge at Wide Bay.

Initiated by the University of Newcastle, the Science and Engineering Challenge is a national competition designed to encourage young people to consider a career in science, engineering or technology.

USQ and Rotary are proud to host the Wide Bay regional challenge this year, at the Police Citizens' and Youth Club in Pialba on Tuesday 6 June 2006.

Regional Chair of the Wide Bay Challenge Coordinating Committee, Steve Grainger, said they are looking forward to hosting the event, following the very successful 2005 Challenge in Toowoomba, where the Fraser Coast Anglican College took out a major prize.

‘I attended the Challenge at USQ Toowoomba this year and the enthusiasm the kids showed was really positive and hopefully this will reflect through their future careers.

‘This was a very exciting event and we expect the Wide Bay Challenge to be every bit as exciting and keenly supported by our local community.

‘In particular we are looking forward to receiving support from the Rotary Clubs of Hervey Bay, Engineers Australia, local schools, businesses and organisations,' he said.

As an Electrical Engineer Mr Grainger is also qualified at promoting the benefits of completing a degree in engineering.

‘Working as an engineer has been an interesting and rewarding career for me that has taken me to the four corners of the planet.

‘I have worked in Africa, Europe and Asia and I am pleased to be involved in an event that gives young people the opportunity to experience the creative side of science and engineering in a fun atmosphere.

‘As a Rotarian I am also committed to ensuring the youth of today progress to be responsible citizens of our future.'

Media Contact: Martine Britton, USQ Wide Bay, +61 7 4120 6167