THE much-loved Coffs Coast Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) returns to Wiigulga Sports Complex on Tuesday 31 March.
Run by the University of Newcastle, the SEC provides Year 10 students the chance to experience how science and engineering can help to solve real-world problems in a fun, competitive setting.
Teams of students from different NSW schools compete against each other in a series of eight challenges.
Teachers from Coffs Coast schools will accompany their students, with 240 students battling it out to win the event.
SEC spokesperson Patty Delaney spoke of the importance of students engaging with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning content.
“Australia’s first trained astronaut and space engineer, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, was named Australian of the Year 2026.
“In her acceptance speech she promoted STEM and she emphasised breaking barriers, encouraging a ‘give-it-a-go’ spirit in science, and fostering diversity in STEM, asserting that no aspiration is too big for Australians.”
Rotary and the University of Newcastle have been breaking down those barriers on the Coffs Coast since 2015 by coordinating the annual SEC event.
Local electrician and refrigeration mechanic Greg Williams is a volunteer Team Leader for a Challenge activity called ‘Flight’, supervising a small team of volunteers for the past few years.
‘Flight’ offers students the opportunity to build a glider, practicing precision landing, aim and flight control.
“The Coffs Coast Science and Engineering Challenge program has a special spot in my heart,” Greg said.
“It’s a wonderful event for students to explore and learn concepts that tend to be dry and boring when taught at school.
“We have a lot of fun supervising the kids.”
If you would like to volunteer at this year’s event, contact Patty Delaney for more information on 0467 072 905 or at pattydelaney101@gmail.com.
Volunteers must have a current Working With Children Check, which is free for volunteers and lasts for five years.
By Andrea FERRARI
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