STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr REBELLO (McPherson) (16:36): I recently had the privilege of visiting St Andrews Lutheran College to attend their IB Primary Years Program exhibition. Working in small groups, these year 6 students investigated real-world issues affecting Australians, and presented thoughtful, creative and innovative solutions. One standout was a team tackling South Australia's algal bloom challenge.

Sam, Rosie and Lyla, three passionate and impressive young scientists, presented 'BloomGuard', a creative science based concept to accelerate the breakdown of harmful algae while protecting aquatic life. Their proposal was developed over nine weeks, under the guidance of a marine biologist and senior science teachers to test assumptions, refine their design and ground their curiosity in evidence.

Their proposal involved a dissolvable, seed-like micro tablet delivering Pseudomonas fluorescens to hasten algal decomposition, with an oxygen-releasing element to guard against oxygen depletion. Other exhibitions were also strong, and covered issues like ebike safety and urban planning. I thank the teachers, staff and families for nurturing such strong student curiosity and critical thinking, and to these dedicated students I say: Continue to think outside the box.

Test limits and never lose your commitment to making the world a better place. The future looks bright with young leaders like you.