Last school holidays three Year 9 students from Tagai Secondary College were lucky enough to rub shoulders with some passionate scientists and get a taste for university life on the Gold Coast.
Thanks to sponsorship from the Rotary Club of Thursday Island and additional support from Bond University and the Rotary Club of Brisbane Mid-City; Leilani Weston, Jazmyn Wena and Taylor Takai-Wall (nominated by their deadly Science teacher Mr Dan Bardon) were among approximately 90 students from across Queensland to participate in the 3 day Conoco-Phillips “Science Experience” program held at Griffith University.

From left: Leilani Weston, Jazmyn Wena, Taylor Takai
The Science Experience is a program designed to provide students who have an interest in science with an opportunity to engage in a variety of fascinating science activities under the guidance of qualified scientists. It also offers information on further studies in science, technology and engineering and highlights the range of careers available in this field.
As part of this program, the girls undertook practicals in genetics, chemistry and oral health, received lectures in drug discovery, cancer and infectious disease treatment and travelled to nearby Surfers Paradise to conduct surveys on beach health and offer recommendations for coastal management.
During their stay, the students also visited Bond University, where they met with staff and students connected with the Indigenous support unit. The girls were taken on an extensive tour of the amazing facilities including the impressive Indigenous art collection and given an insight into university life from the perspective of Hannah Duncan, a bubbly young student from Mer who is currently studying Law.

At Bond University with Hannah Duncan (current student) and Narelle Urquhart (Indigenous Support Officer).
Each of the girls finished the week brimming with stories and buzzing with enthusiasm for their future career paths. A special thank you to Laura Harvey and Narelle Urquhart from Bond University, the staff at Griffith University, Taylor’s Mum Lisa and Judy Xavier from the Rotary Club of Brisbane Mid City for helping this trip become a reality for the students.
This opportunity aligns with the Rotary Clubs goals of empowering young people to be successful, active and informed citizens. In the lead-up to the trip the girls assisted in the Clubs beach clean-up, clothes pack and fortnightly markets and it is hoped they will continue to look for ways to contribute to their local community.

Rotary Beach Clean-up: Leilani, Taylor and her Mum Lisa giving a helping hand.
If you are interested in becoming involved in our Rotary Clubs activities, please contact our club Membership Director Michael Evans on 0412 074 340.
Sally Pannifex (Education Officer- Rotary Club of Thursday Island)