By Lucy Waldron
The 2024 Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Expo and Awards Day, saw a remarkable level of participation from across the globe, with students and educators gathering to celebrate science and sustainable agriculture.
The event, which has grown significantly in both size and scope, attracted entries not only from across Australia but also from Indonesia, Argentina, and Portugal.
Barbara George-Jaeggli, Hermitage Centre leader said the competition has certainly gone global.
“This year, we had 129 schools register, engaging 3,591 students. We received 159 science entries and 238 art entries from every Australian state except the Northern Territory, and we’ve even seen participation from Indonesia and winners from as far as Argentina and Portugal,” she said.
The theme of this year’s competition focused on how agriculture and fisheries can work together to ensure a sustainable future.
“We wanted students to discover how these industries can coexist to provide enough food while also protecting vital ecosystems,” Ms George-Jaeggli explained.
“It’s also about highlighting the varied career paths available in these fields, from agricultural research to fisheries patrol officers.”
The Expo featured a special presentation from Yangan State School, whose students showcased their water quality report on the local Condamine River and compared aquaponic systems.
Their work raised awareness about the importance of sustaining and reviving local river systems while fostering an interest in science and the natural environment.
Dr Wayne Hall, executive director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, spoke on the Queensland Government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries.
“We have great science behind our sustainable fisheries strategy, and it’s critical that we monitor and enforce the regulations that protect our natural resources,” Mr Hall said.
He praised the work of the Hermitage Research Facility and its team for their dedication in organising the event and contributing to agricultural research.
Scott Hillier, a former fisheries inspector and now the host of Channel 7’s Creek to Coast, was a special guest at the event.
Mr Hillier shared his experience as a fisheries inspector and emphasised the importance of sustainable fishing practices.
“It’s crucial to follow size limits and bag limits, ensuring fish have the chance to spawn and replenish for future generations,” he said.
“For those of you interested in a career in fisheries, it’s a great path. You get to protect the environment and have a bit of fun along the way.”
Hillier also spoke about his involvement with OzFish, a national organisation dedicated to the conservation of fish habitats. He highlighted their work in seagrass and shellfish restoration projects, which have shown promising results in restoring marine ecosystems.
Several students were awarded for their work and research on ‘Fishing and farming for the Future’. The full awards list can be found on the Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition website.
The day continued with informative tours of the facilities and a science show alley where the students continued to learn about important agriculture and fisheries initiatives.
With growing global participation and impactful projects, the Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Expo continue to inspire young minds to explore careers in these critical fields while emphasising the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
