QIMR helping flood affected school

The Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) is helping Milpera State High School rebuild after the Brisbane floods ruined their Chelmer school grounds and science department. The school has had to be relocated to Yeronga TAFE to continue classes for its 200 students ranging from years 8 to 12.

QIMR is providing equipment for Milpera’s science classes as part of Operation Archimedes. Operation Archimedes, an initiative coordinated by Science Industry Australia Inc., matches up schools that have been affected by floods and cyclone Yasi with organisations from all sectors of the Australia science community. The initiative was the brainchild of The University of Queensland scientist Greg Young.

“We are delighted to be involved in such a worthwhile program. QIMR’s Education Program aims to inspire the scientists of tomorrow and by providing much needed science equipment to a school in need, we hope to do just that,” said QIMR’s Education Coordinator, Simone Cross.

“Our researchers relish the opportunity to give back and inspire students who are interested in a career in science. We hope this will be the start of a long-term partnership between Milperra SHS and QIMR. In addition to providing equipment, we have invited the students to tour QIMR’s laboratories and complete real science experiments alongside our researchers. We will continue to support the school as it rebuilds.”

The handover ceremony will involve young QIMR researchers Jatin Patel, Ken Dutton-Regester and Rebekah Brennan presenting Milpera SHS with equipment for their classes and a series of scientific demonstrations will be performed.