VICTOR CHANG SCIENCE AWARD
On Thursday, 15 August 2024, three outstanding students from John Therry Catholic College were honored with the prestigious Victor Chang Science Award for the Campbelltown Council Local Government Area. The recipients, Salomiya Siby, Khirbanandah Kugnantha, and Braydon Donovan, were recognized for their exceptional achievements in science and their potential to contribute to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The Victor Chang School Science Awards are designed to celebrate gifted students who demonstrate a strong passion for STEM subjects. These awards aim to inspire and encourage young minds to pursue careers in these fields, fostering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
Meet Our Award-Winning Students
Braydon Donovan
Braydon is a bright and enthusiastic student, currently excelling in Biology and Investigating Science at John Therry Catholic College. Known for his innovative thinking, Braydon's recent scientific investigation focused on the effectiveness of solar panels, specifically analyzing the best time of day to harvest the most energy. His dedication was evident as he meticulously measured the energy output of solar panels at various times over a week, providing valuable insights into solar energy efficiency.
Khirbanandah Kugnantha
Khir is an enthusiastic young man with a deep passion for science. Having moved to Australia from the Philippines just two years ago, Khir attended the Miller Intensive English Centre before joining John Therry in 2023. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, Khir has excelled in Investigating Science. His current project set out to prove the curvature of the Earth by measuring shadows simultaneously in Campbelltown and the Philippines. By calculating the angle of the Sun at both locations, Khir provided compelling evidence for his hypothesis, showcasing his scientific curiosity and determination.
Salomiya Siby
Salomiya has consistently demonstrated exceptional curiosity and dedication in her academic pursuits. Her passion for science goes beyond the standard curriculum, as she regularly explores complex topics and engages in independent research. Salomiya's inquisitive nature drives her to ask insightful questions and seek a deeper understanding of the material. Her studious and hardworking approach to her studies is evident in her consistently thorough and detailed work, often exceeding expectations.
These three students embody the spirit of the Victor Chang Science Awards, with their dedication, curiosity, and passion for science serving as an inspiration to their peers and the broader community. We congratulate Salomiya, Khir, and Braydon on their remarkable achievements and look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.
