Young scientists across the Upper Lachlan Shire are working on solving real-world problems faced by farmers.
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Primary school students at Binda Public School are working on projects to enhance data capture for landholders by placing microchips in stock.
The students hope to enhance the vital information provided to farmers as part of their agricultural studies.
Students were visited by Nigel Hicks, operations and maintenance manager at Crookwell 2 Windfarm and Camilla Staff, project officer at RDA Southern Inland on the first day back of term, as part of the STEM Industry School Partnership Pilot Program.
They also hope to design an underground tank that captures flood water.
The problems were identified by the agricultural sector and the students at the local primary schools and Crookwell High have until the end of the school year to solve them.
The schools could use STELR solar and wind kits, robotics and drones to assist them with their projects.
“This is a valuable initiative that joins industry and education to promote real-world engagement and awareness of issues that farmers and landowners face,” Mr Hicks said.
Students at Bigga Public School also quizzed Mr Hicks on windfarms, as he and Ms Staff dropped by for a visit.
The opportunity also provided an opportunity to pose real-world questions for their agricultural science project.
A design to utilise the energy source of the wind turbines to power automatic gates.
It is part of a pilot program, funded by the NSW Department of Education, that aims to provide students with age appropriate STEM skills and pathways to STEM jobs.
Three local windfarms, including Crookwell 2, are working closely with the students to assist them with their projects.
The students quizzed Mr Hicks on windfarms:
- How hard is it to find the perfect site? It took more than 10 years to find the Crookwell 2 site.
- What are the red lights on the turbines at night? They are there so air planes can see the turbines.
- Are there stairs inside the turbines? Crookwell 2 wind turbines have lifts as well as stairs.
- How do you get the electricity to houses? Underground cables back to the grid.
