Fin-tastic science competition set to reel in thousands of students

News release | 09-May-2024

Thousands of students will get up close and personal with the business of sustainable farming and fishing as they take part in a national school plant science competition.

The 28th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition, run by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries' Hermitage Research Facility, will focus on sustainable farming and fishing to ensure future food security, support jobs and protect vital ecosystems.

Last year more than 5,000 students from 176 schools submitted science and art entries.

Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,500 students from 122 schools across the country already registered.

Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition activities are aligned to the Australian school curriculum, making it easy for teachers to incorporate the competition project into their learning programs.

Students can enter all 3 award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRticulTure Awards or the Guardians of Earth 'Pest Invaders' BioQuest.

Registrations are open until 17 May 2024, with entries closing on 21 June 2024.

All entrants in the science and art competitions will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.

Winners will be announced on 13 August 2024 during National Science week at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.

The major sponsors include the Queensland Government Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Grains Research and Development Corporation, Guardians of Earth, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and Earthwatch Australia.

For more information and to enter visit https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/agriculture/plants/schools-plant-science-competition or call 13 25 23.

Quotes attributable to Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Hermitage Research Facility spokesperson Kerrie Rubie:

"This year's competition puts the microscope on sustainable farming and fishing practices to help students understand the importance of protecting our agriculture and aquaculture industries for future food security and ecosystem preservation," Ms Rubie said.

"Students will get hands on with fisheries-themed investigations and activities that will uncover the importance of healthy rivers, creeks, oceans and wetlands in supporting Australia's fisheries and agricultural industries.

"They can also immerse themselves in nature with the Guardians of Earth 'Pest Invaders' BioQuest, using a mobile gaming app to spot and identify plant pests, weeds and diseases.

"Students with a flair for art can enter the Art in AgRiculTure Awards section.

"The Art in AgRiculTure Awards link art and science in a fun, interesting and creative way to enhance students' learning about sustainable farming and fishing."

ENDS

Media contact: DAF Media, media@daf.qld.gov.au