Festival of STEM
Festival of STEM -Inspiring Innovation Education
Pedal Prix, F1 in Schools, Robotics, Drones & Women in STEM activities
Who we are?
Our global economy is changing every day. Current jobs are disappearing due to automation, and as a result of these technological advances, new jobs are emerging. Therefore, it is crucial for students to adapt the way in which they learn, connect and interact.
The Whitsunday STEM Challenge is a not-for-profit charity aimed at increasing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) participation by students in the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac regions.
By developing our students’ skills through STEM, we’re providing them with the foundation to succeed at school and beyond.
Whitsunday STEM challenge also connects with Split Spaces to offer Professional Development for teachers via the Futurepreneurs program.
Inspiring innovative education - What we do
We create experiences and competitions locally to bring together representatives from Mackay district schools and the greater regions in-conjunction with CQUniversity and Split Spaces to plan and deliver a variety of STEM-related events. These competitions provide invaluable opportunities for students to gain knowledge and experience in a variety of STEM and other subjects and for those who are passionate to launch their careers. These activities occur during the school year, including International Women’s Day in March and the Festival of STEM in the 2nd or 3rd Week of June


We are very much looking forward to welcoming the BHP & BMA Whitsunday STEM Challenge competitors, officials and supporters again this year to the Mackay Region, and we are very pleased to be participating in this exciting competition.
A team of Dutch students holds the world record for a human powered vehicle clocking 133.78 km/h at the World HPV Challenge at Battle Mountain Nevada in 2013. We can expect our teams to be turning in speeds over 70 km/h as they race around the special course at Palmyra.
Winning isn’t just about the physical ability of the athletes competing. The winning team will have demonstrated their skills in science, technology and engineering to design and build a vehicle that is streamlined, easy to drive, and able to sustain 18 hours of continuous work at maximum input.
For the visitors to our region coming to support this tremendous event, we hope you allow some time to explore our wonderful part of the world. The weather in June is glorious, with an average maximum temperature of around 22 degrees, so it should be perfect for the event as well as some sightseeing.
There’s 101 things to do in Mackay and you can find some great suggestions on the Mackay Tourism website: www.mackayregion.com
See you in the region in June!
Mayor Greg Williamson
Mackay Regional Council
