Year 11 students Alix Baker, Alex Johnson and Thomas White had the outstanding opportunity to attend the Engineering Australia Summer School in Sydney during Week 9.

After arriving in Sydney in the late afternoon, the students settled into Scanta Sophia College (SSC), familiarised themselves with the campus and enjoyed their first evening together. Following dinner, students were divided into houses and began their first engineering challenge — a marble run activity — which our students proudly went on to win.

Monday began with an early start as the group travelled to the University of New South Wales (UNSW). There, students participated in engaging workshops focused on renewable and solar energy, as well as mining engineering, where advanced augmented reality technologies were showcased. A campus tour followed before travelling to the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (ARMF). Students were impressed by the innovative technologies on display and valued the opportunity to ask questions, learn from industry professionals and form new friendships with fellow participants. The day concluded with an enjoyable trivia night that provided plenty of laughter and team spirit.

On Tuesday, students travelled to Wollongong, beginning with a visit to Bluescope Steel. Guided by an enthusiastic tour leader, students explored the factory floor and gained insight into large-scale steel production. The group then visited the University of Wollongong (UOW), participating in immersive workshops across biomedical, civil and electrical engineering disciplines. These experiences provided valuable insight into the breadth of engineering pathways available. A campus tour highlighted the university’s impressive facilities before returning to SSC for a well-earned rest.

Wednesday offered further exposure to real-world engineering through a visit to Sydney Trains. Students engaged with engineers and engineering students while learning about diverse career pathways, including signalling, trades and engineering roles. Later, at Macquarie University, students took part in civil engineering and renewable energy workshops and heard from a mechanical engineer completing her PhD, offering inspiration and insight into advanced study. The day concluded with an Engineers’ Careers and Pizza Night, where students had the opportunity to ask questions and network with experienced engineers and industry leaders.

On Thursday, the group travelled to RAAF Base Richmond, where students met engineering students and professionals who shared how the Air Force supports education and career development. Students toured aircraft including a Hercules and a C-17, gaining an understanding of defence engineering pathways. The afternoon was spent at the University of Sydney (USYD), where students participated in civil and aeronautical engineering workshops, including flying drones and using flight simulators. The day concluded with a formal presentation evening, where students received their Certificates of Completion and heard encouraging addresses from Engineering Australia leaders. Celebrations followed with dinner, socialising and dancing.

Friday saw the group visit the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), where students learned about nuclear engineering careers and toured the facility, including the OPAL reactor. This final experience rounded out an inspiring and educational week. Students then shared a final meal together before farewelling new friends and returning home.

The students would like to sincerely thank the Inverell East Rotary Club for generously sponsoring their participation, and Mrs Mason for her guidance and support throughout the application process. This experience provided invaluable insight into engineering pathways and was both inspiring and memorable.

MERITS

Year 8

Year 9

Year 8

Year 9

Year 10

Year 11

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Year 7

Year 9