In 2023, we were the proud recipients of the engaging science grant. We were grateful to use this funding for our Outback STEM Roadshow.
In May, the integratedSTEM team embarked on an exciting outback adventure, traveling west to bring our passion for STEM to rural schools. During the roadshow, we taught topics such as Machine Vision, Artificial Intelligence, and Electronics. We were joined by UniSQ, who helped deliver a Science of Space program, and the Army Cadets Drone Racing Team, who captivated students with thrilling demonstrations of cutting-edge FPV drones, giving students the chance to get hands-on with a drone racing simulator.
FIRST STOP…CHARLEVILLE
Our first stop was Charleville, known for its bilbies and being the heart of Mulga Country. This beautiful town offered plenty to explore before we began our teaching for the day. The students were particularly engaged with the flame test in the “Science of Space” lesson, enthusiastically guessing which chemicals produced the various colours of fire.
CUNNAMULLA
Next, we travelled to Cunnamulla, where we greeted the iconic Cunnamulla Fella and enjoyed a sunrise coffee by the war memorial. Here, the highlight was the Army Cadets’ session. With the advantage of a large oval, the Cadets put on an impressive display, showcasing their skills and talent.
MOVING ON TO ST. GEORGE…
On our way to St. George, the integratedSTEM team made a quick detour so Lizzy Cleland could snap a picture in front of a property named Cleland!
Upon arriving in St. George, with photos of emus and signs bearing our names safely tucked away, we prepared for a big day ahead. Several regional schools had also travelled to St. George for a careers fair, giving us a fantastic opportunity to teach students valuable STEM skills they could use in future careers. The favourite session here was on Artificial Intelligence, where students learned how to create their own AI models and helped train Google’s “Quick, Draw” AI with their impressive drawing skills.
BACK HOME!
The roadshow concluded in our hometown of Toowoomba. Grateful to spend a night in our own beds, we headed to the Cobb and Co Museum the next morning for the World Science Fair. Utilizing classrooms at the nearby TAFE, we wrapped up the roadshow on a high note. A standout moment for the Toowoomba students was working with buzzers in our electronic circuits session, where they enthusiastically confirmed continuity with loud beeps—perhaps more times than necessary!
The roadshow was an incredible way to connect with students who don’t usually have the opportunity to engage with STEM, equipping them with valuable real-world skills they can carry with them throughout their schooling and beyond.
None of this would have been possible if not for the Inspiring Australia Initiative and the engaging science grant.
