HIGH school students enjoyed the Growing Science Forum held at the Repertory Club in Manjimup last Tuesday, thanks to the Shire of Manjimup's Royalties for Regions funded Seed Program.
Entertaining speakers on the day included acclaimed scientist, explorer and conservationist Professor Tim Flannery, Professor Lyn Beazley AO FTSE, along with high profile scientists Sarah Marley and Dr Peter McGilchrist.
Students from Manjimup, Bridgetown, Pemberton, Nannup and surrounding areas attended the day program, with a special evening session held for community members.
The theme for the 2016 Growing Science Forum was Food Security and Climate Change, with Professor Flannery presenting a straightforward and powerful exploration on the connection between climate change, global warming and human activity.
Professor Beazley, who was the chief Scientist at UWA from 2006 to 2013 and Western Australian of the Year 2014, talked about new advances in agriculture and the great opportunities that are available to those who decide to study science when they finish high school.
“Understanding science can give young people a unique edge, no matter what career they decide to follow,” she said.
“I love encouraging kids to get into science. If you study science you can go absolutely anywhere, it’s a passport to the world.”
This year also saw the addition of university and TAFE trade stalls during the lunch break, providing students with the opportunity to gain some insight into what science courses are on offer in Western Australia.
Manjimup shire president Cr Wade DeCampo said it was great to have this important educational opportunity to allow students to get some insight into what a career in science can offer.
"The SEED program is about nurturing the link between local students, producers and education institutions," explained Cr DeCampo. "By exposing our local students to the opportunities available to them in agriculture and science, the SEED program will hopefully open doors for them that they never knew existed.
Community members were also given an opportunity to listen to and interact with Professor Flannery on Tuesday evening, which Cr DeCampo said was a great opportunity for those not available during business hours.
The Southern Forests SEED Program is aimed at sowing the seeds for future growth. It is part of the overall Agricultural Expansion Project funded by the Royalties for Regions program/SuperTowns project, aimed at increasing interest in agriculture as a career path. For more information contact the Manjimup Shire.
I love encouraging kids to get into science. If you study science you can go absolutely anywhere, it’s a passport to the world.
- Professor Lyn Beazley, AO FTSE
