Primary and secondary school students from Rockhampton and Mackay will compete in the categories of dance, soccer and rescue during the 2nd annual CQ Junior Robotics Competition in Rockhampton.

The robots will not be as threatening as those portrayed in the ‘I Robot’ movie.

This competition will be held on Sunday, August 1, at the Creative Arts precinct of CQU Rockhampton.

Some teams which competed at last year’s regional event went on to be placed at the combined State/National competition in Brisbane.

The event is organised by CQU’s Faculty of Informatics and Communication as a way of encouraging students to use teamwork and knowledge across many different discipline areas to construct and program their robots.

The robots are typically built using commercial construction kits and incorporate a microcontroller allowing them to sense and react according to their surroundings. The microcontrollers can be programmed to control motors, arms, legs, lighting or sound.

VIPs expected for the Opening Ceremony include Lynne Foley, Executive Director of Schools, Rockhampton District, for Education Queensland as well as representatives of CQU and Rockhampton City Council. ENDS.

For details call Jeni Richardson via 4923 2145 or 0439 709 025.