Bug Attack is the theme for a schools-based competition pitched at getting students hooked on agriculture.
The DAFF Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition aims to make students more aware of the great, long-term, careers available in agriculture.
To grow agriculture as one of the four pillars of our economy, it is important we encourage young Queenslanders to learn more about rewarding careers in the sector.
Agriculture underpins tens of thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to our economy. It’s the lifeblood of the Burnett, so it’s vital we foster an interest in science and agriculture among local school students so they take up careers in the sector.
The competition offers engaging ways for students to understand skills in key areas identified in the Australian Science Curriculum.
Focusing on bugs raiding foodstuffs in the kitchen pantry, students from prep to year-12 will undertake experiments to learn more about insect pests and hopefully ignite a love of agricultural science and research
The competition is linked to the new Australian school curriculum, making it easy for teachers to incorporate into learning programs.
The competition has so far helped more than 70,000 students increase their knowledge of agriculture and crop science.
Students will undertake hands-on experiments, observing bugs in the classroom and at home.
Prizes include: trophies, medallions and certificates, digital microscopes/cameras, science books, gardening packs, art packs, science kits and educational DVDs, a 12-month subscription to a science journal worth $500, a $250 gift certificate and $1,000 towards tertiary education materials.
Entries for the 2014 DAFF Hermitage Research Facility Schools Science Competition close on Friday June 27.
For more information, visit http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/plants/field-crops-and-pastures/research/hermitage-competition or phone 13 25 23.