Tasmanian students make Smart Moves

12 October 2004

Nuclear bananas, emergency rescue rats and blowfly powered robots are just a few of the items Tasmanian High School students are about to discover. Over the next five weeks, the Questacon Smart Moves team will divulge the cutting-edge science and technology associated with biodegradable plastic, Australian innovations, dating and more.

Questacon Smart Moves is a free program for secondary students, designed to inspire young Australians to be innovative and entrepreneurial in science, technology and business, as well as highlight the fantastic careers available in these areas. It is supported by the Federal Government’s Backing Australia’s Ability: Backing Our Future Through Science and Innovation (BAA) and is operated by Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, Australia’s leading interactive science and technology centre.

“Students have brilliant ideas and we’re here to help turn them into even more brilliant realities,” said presenter Alice Trend. “It’s great to know that the government is keen to support young Australian innovators through Backing Australia’s Ability.

“By engaging students, teachers and community groups through our shows and website we’re forming a strong community base of support for the next generation of Australian innovators,” continued Alice. “We’re here to empower and inspire our young people and give them a belief in themselves, as well as have a laugh and a good time!”

“Our school show is just one part of the Questacon Smart Moves program,” said fellow presenter Jamos McAlester. “We offer community presentations, teachers’ resources, newsletters and a website. Our third Invention Convention in Canberra will be held in July 2005, gathering young innovators from across Australia to further develop their entrepreneurial skills.”

Media interviews and photo opportunities are available in most major towns.