• Click here for STEM Unearthed photos – Sarina SHS and Mackay Northern Beaches SHS.
• Click here for Pit2Port workshop photos – Dysart SHS

What is this – the science Olympics?

With a range of events happening over multiple locations in the region you would be forgiven for thinking there was a science Olympics happening in Mackay regional schools.

While there were no celebrity athletes on show, there were plenty of student mathletes at multiple secondary school workshops being delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy (QMEA) in partnership with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) recently, including:

• Event 1 – STEM Unearthed workshop at Sarina SHS
• Event 2 – STEM Unearthed workshop at Mackay Northern Beaches SHS
• Event 3 – Pit to Port workshop at Dysart SHS
• Event 4 – STEM Big Day Out for multiple secondary schools.

Year 10 students competing in the STEM Unearthed workshops faced two scientific challenges which tested their mind muscle and resilience.

The students did plenty of academic preparation prior to the event with coaching from their science teachers on environmental science and chemistry.

They were also mentored by BMA representatives on the day, giving them a distinct advantage as they worked as a team to complete the Finding coal is your goal and Engineering the perfect drink activities.

Linda Murry General Manager of BMA’s Hay Point Coal terminal said the QMEA workshops were a great opportunity to connect with local schools and share career stories with students.

“The Pit to Port workshop was like a decathlon – demonstrating the many stages of mining operations, which was a bit of an eye-opener for the Year 7 and 8 students,” said Linda.

“We have got a strong graduate and apprenticeship program at BMA and workshops like these are a chance to give the students more insight into our industry and hopefully spark their interest in continuing their STEM studies.”

Katrina-Lee Jones, QRC Director – Skills, Education and Diversity, said the students at all schools had displayed great teamwork, resilience and problem-solving skills.

“Teamwork does not just happen on the relay track, it is essential in working life particularly in the resources sector which relies on team efficiency for productivity and safety,” said Ms Jones.

“There may not have been a medal ceremony at the end of the workshops, but I think for some students there may be a bigger prize – a future career in the resources sector.”

For more information about resources careers visit: shapeyourfuture.com.au