In May we supported the Yallarm 2022 STEM camp, a unique and hands-on opportunity for local year 8 Indigenous students to build their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills and knowledge. 

18 students from five local state high schools attended the four day camp hosted at Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre (BIEEC). 

Operations Manager – Central Queensland, David Slack-Smith and Manager – Gladstone Operations Cameron Hausler attended the camp on day one to represent Monadelphous.

Project Administrator Molly Cartwright and Project Engineer William Paulson also attended on the third day and presented to the students as part of the careers discussion. 

Despite the weather changing the original plans, BIEEC's chief scientist Dr Karl tasked the students to follow clues throughout the week to discover a 'mystery organism', which saw them excitedly track some of the water bugs. 

Cameron Hausler said it was great to be able to support the camp again and give students access to an immersive STEM learning experience. 

"The support from Monadelphous allowed this camp to be held for another successful year where the kids got to learn about all aspects of STEM," he said. 

"According to the teachers, the students had a wonderful time building rafts and problem-solving as a team and developing these important skills.

"The kids also enjoyed getting to visit the workshop and seeing first-hand what we do day-to-day."

BIEEC Senior Teacher Cathy Singh said that the centre enjoyed hosting the event and received great feedback.

"Thank you to Monadelphous for sponsoring and supporting the camp," Cathy said. 

"The written and verbal feedback from students indicated that they enjoyed both the activities and in particular meeting new friends and making connections."

"We are already looking forward to 2023 and ready to make it even better!"

A final presentation was held on Friday and was well attended by parents as they were able to find out about the week as BIEEC showcased the activities. 

Thank you to everyone involved – it is great to be able to support hands-on STEM learning in our local community.