Local students could enjoy the Antarctic experience of a lifetime with a successful entry in a competition to name Australia’s new icebreaker vessel.
Federal Member for Wright Scott Buchholz welcomed the opportunity for local students to travel to the icy continent and encouraged them to put their thinking caps on.
“It’s a far cry from our summer heat but this is a great opportunity to inspire our local students to learn about the environment, climate, history and Australia’s role in the chilly location,” Mr Buchholz said.
“12 lucky students and four teachers will fly to Antarctica for a day, becoming the first children to set foot on the ice as part of the Australian Antarctic Program.”
“The winning students will fly from Hobart to Australia’s Wilkins Aerodrome where they will meet Antarctic Scientists, as well as expeditioners living and working at nearby Casey Research Station.”
The ‘Name our Icebreaker’ competition has two categories: primary (years 5 and 6) and secondary (years 7 and 8) with classes able to enter their suggested name in a written or video format.
The sophisticated new Antarctic resupply and research vessel will shape the future of Australia’s Antarctic Program and will bear the chosen name.
Entries in the ‘Name our Icebreaker’ competition will be judged by a panel of Antarctic experts on criteria including originality, creativity, sincerity and appropriateness in line with the objectives and activities of the Australian Antarctic Program.
“The competition closes on Friday June 9. The winning entry will be announced in September and the prize flight to Antarctica taking place in November this year,” Mr Buchholz said.
“I encourage our local schools and their students to get creative for a chance to brave the icy temperatures and enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
More information for the name the icebreaker competition via https://classroom.antarctica.gov.au/icebreaker.