The Eureka Prizes are the leading science awards for all scientists in Australia and are even sometimes referred to as the Oscars of Science. Most of the prizes are for adult scientists however there is a school student category called Sleek Geeks where students are required to make a 2 minute film. The film needs to communicate a scientific concept in an engaging and accessible way. This year all films were also required to suit the theme of ‘Energy’.
The Australian Museum has just announced the finalists for the 2024 Eureka Sleek Geeks competition. This year Cate Yuen (Year 6) and also Eugenia Yeung (Year 5) have been announced as finalists. This means that they have come either first, or one of two runners up in all of Australia in this competition. Cate and Eugenia will attend the Eureka Awards Presentation Night on Wednesday September 4 at the Sydney Town Hall when they will be presented with their prizes.
Cate‘s film is called “Popcorn Magic: Unlocking The Energy Within” and demonstrates why popcorn pops! Eugenia’s Film is called “Energy Adventure: Solar Panels At The Right Angle” and shows why we need to consider the angle solar panels are placed so they capture the most energy.
As well as this amazing news, there are seven films in all of Australia that are being awarded Highly Commended and one of these films is that of Anastasia Vithoulkas (Year 4). Anastasia’s film is called “Are Fireworks Really Worth The Energy” and focuses on the effect of fireworks on our pet dogs.
These are outstanding results and are a result of a massive commitment, attention to detail and effort from all involved.
Huge thanks to Mr Scott Gregory (Technology, eLearning & Innovation Leader, Junior Schoo) l for mentoring these talented students with Mrs Annie Martin (Junior School Science Coordinator)!
Their films are now live on YouTube—don't miss them!