Victorian teen takes out top honour at BHP awards

Victorian science student Conroy Cheers from Caufield Grammar School in Victoria has received the highest award at the prestigious BHP Science and Engineering Awards held on Wednesday, 5 February 2014 at Zinc in Federation Square, Melbourne.

Announced by Chief Executive Officer of BHP Billiton, Andrew Mackenzie, and CSIRO Chief Executive, Megan Clark, Conroy’s investigative project focused upon the correlation between texting and driving safety.

The use of mobile phones while driving is an illegal, dangerous, yet common activity on our roads. Conroy developed a method by which the risks of texting while driving, through hands-on and new hands-free methods could be measured. The process developed by Conroy has significant potential as an educational tool to allow other road users to experience the dangers of texting while driving.

Two other Victorian students, Cynthia Sin Nga Lam and Somya Mehra from Balwyn High School were also nominated finalists in the investigative category. Cynthia investigated the applications of titanium dioxide photocatalysis on the removal of organic waste in water, whilst Somya investigated the biosynthesis of ethanol.

Additionally, Benjamin Beagley from St Kevin's College was a nominated finalist in the engineering category. Using the bamboo in his garage, Benjamin designed and constructed a cheaper alternative to the traditional bike utilising the strength and flexibility of bamboo to replace heavy, industrial metal components. 

"Science will always be at the core of understanding how we address human, environmental and business challenges. As a global natural resources company, scientists and engineers are an integral part of our present and future, and fundamental to the ongoing development of society," said CEO of BHP, Andrew Mackenzie.

The annual award ceremony rewards young people who have undertaken practical research projects, which demonstrate innovative approaches and thorough scientific or engineering procedures.

veski congratulates all finalists on their outstanding research and looks forward to sharing information about their innovative projects throughout our inspiring students and teachers school program.