More than 100 Bundaberg and Rosedale high school students participated in the Bundaberg Region Science and Engineering Challenge 2007 yesterday (June 20) at the Bundaberg Civic Centre.

The challenge is a set of fun and competitive activities involving the principles of science, engineering and technology and was presented by the University of Newcastle in cooperation with CQU Bundaberg, the University of Southern Queensland, Engineers Australia - Burnett Local Group, the Rotary Club of Bundaberg West, Jaycar Bundaberg and Main Roads Queensland.

Seven different activities were conducted, with each school represented at each activity. 

CQU Bundaberg staff Helen Afflick, Ruth Taylor, Desirae Kirby and Myles Greber and Bachelor of Information technology student Peter Ferrick assisted with activities.

Science lecturer Desirae Kirby said students enjoyed a wide range of challenges and teachers were impressed by the level of teamwork and communication that was initiated between students.

"Kepnock State High School led most of way but North Bundaberg High won the day when a team of budding female civil engineers blitzed the bridge building competition," Ms Kirby said.

On arrival at the venue, students were immediately engaged in the activities with minimum introduction and theory provided, enabling them to explore scientific principles for themselves rather than being guided to a predetermined answer.

Each school provided a team of between 16-32 year 9 or 10 students.  Each team was divided into 8 smaller groups that competed in either 1 or 2 activities during the day. 

Each activity was led by a team of volunteers responsible for running the activity -setting up the equipment, briefing students, scoring and ensuring that the score sheets were handed in on time.