09-June-2009
Goldstein Media Releases, Education and Training
Sandringham resident and Brighton Grammar School student, Mel Chen, will journey to Japan in July to go head to head with other students from all over the world at the International Biology Olympiad Competitions as part of the Science Olympics.
Mr Chen is one of thirteen who were selected from nearly 40,000 students to represent Australia in the Science Olympics following a gruelling series of special classes, exams, study sessions, and an intensive summer scholar school training programme run at Monash University by Australian Science Innovations (ASI).
“I would like to congratulate Mel on this outstanding achievement. Being selected to compete in this university standard competition is a phenomenal feat in itself,” Andrew Robb, Federal Member for Goldstein, said.
Mr Chen’s success builds on that of former Kilvington Girls Grammar student Genevieve Martin, who took out the bronze medal at the International Biology Olympiad Competitions in 2007.
Mr Robb celebrated Mr Chen’s selection with him recently at a Parliament House presentation and morning tea. Students selected also had to the honour to hear an address by Professor Ian Frazer, 2006 Australian of the Year and cervical cancer vaccine pioneer, who stressed the importance of developing talented young scientists.
The Science Olympics is a great experience for students considering careers in the field of science. Mr Chen hopes to pursue a career in biology in the future, but right now he is simply looking forward to the experience of the competition and travelling overseas.
“I wish Mel all the best in seizing every opportunity this competition offers,” Mr Robb said.
Media contact: Skye Buttenshaw, 9557 4644