Primary schools buzzing for science competition
29 Jan 2018
Schools across the state will be abuzz this term, with the 2018 NSW DPI Investigate Technology and Science Competition kicking off on January 30 with a focus on bees.
DPI Deputy Director General Biosecurity and Food Safety Mr Bruce Christie said schools still had time to register their interest in the annual competition, which is open to Year 5 and 6 classes.
“Many students have heard about the plight of bees and the important role that they play in our environment and in food production,” Mr Christie said.
“This year, Investigate: Bees encourages students to take their knowledge a bit deeper and to take action to support both honey bees and Australian native bees.”
Mr Christie said bees in NSW face serious biosecurity threats including pests and diseases, as well as introduced bee species that have the potential to decimate our native populations.
“Throughout the activities in the competition, students are encouraged to find out which insects are currently visiting their gardens and what they can do to help minimise the risks to bees,” he said.
“We’re also hoping to cultivate the next generation of biosecurity warriors in NSW, helping to protect our economy, community and environment from pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants.”
The 2018 competition has been developed in collaboration with Cool Australia, providing students access to some of its ‘Love Food? Love Bees!’ resources.
“These Cool Australia resources were developed with ACT for Bees to help students understand that the plight of bees is also the plight of humans. Students will also investigate the role of bee keepers and factors that influence honey production,” Mr Christie said.
All entries into the 2018 Investigate competition are recognised with a certificate of participation, the top four projects will also receive a cash prize, with 1st prize taking home $1,000.
The Investigate Science and Technology Competition is an initiative of the NSW Department of Primary Industries School Program. Register at www.tocal.nsw.edu.au/home/investigate
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