More Australian girls with a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics will take part in the annual Curious Minds Summer Camp.

More than 120 young women from across Australia will virtually attend a four-day intensive program and receive six months of one-on-one mentorship from 48 women in STEM professions.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said he was very pleased to share Annaliese Bohnstedt of Brisbane Bayside State College was amongst those chosen to take part in Curious Minds.

“The Curious Minds program provides an opportunity for Year 9 and 10 girls to explore their interests and build confidence in STEM subjects,” Mr Vasta said.

“I want to congratulate Annaliese and and hope she learns new skills and gains the confidence to pursue a career in STEM after school.

“Because of COVID-19, these high-potential young women will take part in a virtual four-day intensive program, including online challenges, followed by six months of coaching sessions with inspiring female mentors working in the STEM community.

“I encourage other young girls in Bonner with similar dreams to get involved and also pursue their passion for STEM.

“STEM skills are vital to future jobs and Australia’s future economy, and our Government is committed to empowering young women to excel in these areas.”

The Australian Government has provided $2.35 million to expand the camp to include Curious Minds West Coast and Curious Minds East Coast programs.

The virtual west camp will be held from 6-9 December and the east camp from 13-16 December.

More information on the program is available here.

‘Destination Moon’ is the theme of this year’s National Science Week and the students at Wynnum West State School were getting into the spirit with their creative moonscape maze.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP visited the school on Monday where year five students were using iPads to drive sphero robots around a moonscape maze.

“The sphero robots were purchased thanks to a federal government science grant and is an important part of the school’s STEM program,” Mr Vasta said.

“It’s incredible to see the enthusiasm for science with students using robotic technology and learning how to code.”

Mr Vasta said National Science Week was a great opportunity to celebrate the social and economic impact of science on our nation.

“We can’t underestimate the importance of science, research and innovation, which are key drivers of the Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy,” Mr Vasta said.

“It’s particularly important that we inspire kids to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects and I’m pleased our government is helping schools achieve this.

“Many of the jobs of the future will require STEM skills and it’s crucial we have students embracing these subjects through primary and secondary schooling.”

For more information visit www.scienceweek.net.au