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Do you know the difference between sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks? Don’t worry, the students at Wandoan and Taroom State Schools know the answer (and a lot more) after participating in a geology workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) in partnership with Senex.

The Year 7 and 8 students rotated through three geological activities during the day:

• Creating an air drill to identify the scientific principles used by drilling rigs
• Using their investigative skills to observe the rock cycle in a laboratory
• A cooling experiment to investigate how crystal size is impacted by temperature

Wandoan State School principal, Tarra Smith, said geology was a popular subject and the workshop was well received by the students.

“From an early age children are fascinated with the world of rocks and today’s Rockin’ Reactions workshop gave the students greater insight into the formation, exploration and excavation of rocks from the earth,” said Mrs Smith.

Senex Community Relations Manager, Trevor Robertson said geological exploration was integral to the resource sector in the Surat Basin.

“Students’ were given a greater understanding of the geological processes involved in securing the natural gas which powers their homes and community,” said Mr Robertson.

“It was great opportunity to provide information to students on the diverse types of careers available from studying STEM in geography.

“We’re proud to partner with the QMEA to deliver educational programs that get local students excited about studying STEM subjects.

“Hopefully today’s workshop has inspired Wandoan’s budding STEM enthusiasts to pursue careers in the broader gas industry and perhaps one day even with Senex Energy.”

The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and QRC Director of Diversity, Education and Skills, Katrina-Lee Jones, said the workshop had been developed based on the Australian science curriculum.

“Earth sciences are an essential part of students studies at this age and play an important role in the future of the energy and resources sector,” said Ms Jones.

“Today’s workshop was about connecting a natural love of rocks to the world of geology and the essential role it plays in our industry,”

“By the end of this workshop these science students will have a greater appreciation of the important role played by geologists and environmental scientists in securing and innovating our future energy resources.”

About the QMEA

The QMEA is an industry-led education initiative designed to show school students how studying science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and trades can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. The highly regarded workshop and camp-based program is now in 100 public, private and independent Queensland schools, thanks to support from Qld Resources Council members and industry sponsors. It is part of the Gateway to Industry Schools program supported and funded by the Queensland Government.