SCIENCE LEARNING AREA
Semester two has brought some great moments for the Science Learning Area, starting with the returns of Ms Brittney Burns and Mrs Chloe Duck from parental leave. We are thrilled to have them rejoin as valued members of our Science team and hope their transition back to work has been smooth and enjoyable.
Semester two also saw the confirmation of not one, but two NASA Study Tours, in May and September of 2025. It has been overwhelming to see such a positive interest from students and families alike, in what will be the college's first ever visits to NASA.
During the week of 12–16 August, the college celebrated Science Week, and what an exhilarating journey it was! Our students showed remarkable enthusiasm and curiosity, making all activities resounding successes and leaving everyone eager for more.
Throughout the week, lunchtimes were transformed into a hub of scientific exploration as students eagerly participated in various activities that showcased the fascinating world of science. The Methane Foam demonstration was a crowd favourite, with students watching in awe as methane gas pumped into a bowl of foam detergent was scooped up by students in their very wet hands, and then lit. The experience not only entertained but also educated participants about the properties of gases and chemical reactions, as they momentarily held their own ball of fire.
Another highlight was the Sound and Music Physics demonstration. Students had the opportunity to explore how sound waves work and how they can be manipulated to create different musical effects. This hands-on activity provided a deeper understanding of the science behind music, igniting a newfound appreciation for the physics of sound.
Making ice cream with dry ice was a deliciously cool experience. Students marvelled at the process of transforming a significantly frozen ingredient into a creamy, frozen treat using the power of dry ice. This activity was not only a tasty treat but also a fun demonstration of the principles of sublimation and the cooling effects of dry ice.
One of the most impactful experiences of Science Week was the interaction with endangered species and discussions about sustainability, in line with the 2024 Science Week theme 'Species Survival - More than just sustainability'. Students had the chance to learn about the challenges faced by endangered species and the importance of conservation efforts. This activity fostered a sense of responsibility and highlighted the crucial role science plays in protecting our planet.
However, the excitement doesn't end with Science Week! We are thrilled to announce that enrolments for the Northern Mallee STEM Idols Workshop, set to take place in early September, have been outstanding. This workshop promises to be a fantastic opportunity for Year 9 students to delve deeper into STEM fields, fostering innovation and critical thinking skills.
In the coming weeks and into Term 4, our students will have even more opportunities to engage with STEM through active participation in the Astronomy and Rocketry Clubs and the F1 in Schools program.
The Astronomy Club has had a few setbacks of late, with the Mildura skies not being overly favourable to our designated dates, however hopes are high to begin star-gazing, as the weather starts to reflect more of 'Tropical North Victoria'.
The Rocketry Club will allow students to explore the principles of aerodynamics and propulsion by building and launching model rockets. Meanwhile, the F1 in Schools program will challenge students to design, build, and race miniature Formula 1 cars, combining engineering skills with teamwork and creativity.
I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students who took part in making Science Week a memorable event. Your eagerness to explore, discover, and understand the world around you is what made this week so special. A big thank-you also goes out to the teachers and volunteers who facilitated these activities, ensuring that students had a fantastic and educational experience.
Mrs Samantha Alexander
Science Learning Area Facilitator