In 2021, Indigenous Year 8 students from across the Gladstone region came together to participate in the second Monadelphous CQUniversity Yallarm STEM Camp. The four-day camp boasted a jam-packed program, coordinated by CQUniversity and the Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre (BIEEC).
Featuring a range of inspiring speakers, a barge trip and a fun-filled day utilising the latest hands-on technology at STEM Central, the group of 20 students were challenged to expand their understanding of STEM in the real world, and learn more about where a career in STEM can take you.
With the added focus on progressing their journey of identity, this year's event proudly adopted the term 'Yallarm' into the official title meaning 'place of shells', recognising the four Indigenous Traditional Owner Tribes of the region (Byellee, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng and Taribelang Bunda). In their opening session, students heard a Welcome to Country by Richard Johnson, member of the Gooreng Gooreng nation of peoples. Throughout the course of the week, students also heard from Will Paulson – Project Engineer and Molly Cartwright – Trainee Administration Assistant, who shared their experience as Indigenous employees at Monadelphous.
Monadelphous' General Manager M&IS Eastern Region, Duane Oxford said providing opportunities for younger generations, particularly from an Indigenous background, to be immersed in educational STEM activities is important for the long-term future of our industry.
"We're incredibly proud to be sponsoring the Yallarm STEM Camp once again, connecting our business with community partners who share our interest in STEM, innovation, education and diversity."
The camp was unfortunately postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19, so Dr. Linda Pfeiffer, Senior Lecturer from CQUniversity was pleased to see the event return in 2021.
"The Yallarm STEM Camp is a great opportunity for our local Indigenous students to engage with STEM in a meaningful context. CQUniversity is proud to partner with Monadelphous to be able to influence our young generations and raising awareness of STEM opportunities locally."
Duane commended key contributors who made this year's event a success including Jill Gohdes – Personal Assistant, David Slack-Smith – Area Manager, Cameron Hausler – Manager – Gladstone Operations, Will Paulson – Project Engineer and Molly Cartwright – Trainee Administration Assistant.
"It's fantastic to see Monadelphous employees working together with our partners at CQUniversity and Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre to volunteer their time, share their experiences and teach students about the career pathways our industry has to offer."
Well done to all involved!
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