University of Newcastle

12/03/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/03/2024 11:24

Port of Newcastle supports STEM students' race towards a sustainable future in world's largest hydrogen competition

Port of Newcastle supports STEM students' race towards a sustainable future in world's largest hydrogen competition

Tuesday, 3 December 2024

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In a first for the Hunter Region, Port of Newcastle will give high school students from five local schools the opportunity to race in the international Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP), gearing them up for a future in the clean energy technology industry alongside 8,000 students from 25 countries worldwide.

The school-based program, supported by Port of Newcastle and run by Horizon Education, will see students design, build, and race their own hydrogen-powered remote-controlled cars in a test of endurance, while fostering an interest in sustainability and renewable energy career pathways.

Port of Newcastle CEO, Craig Carmody, said the Port was inspired to bring the global competition to the Hunter while attending the World Hydrogen Summit 2024 in Rotterdam.

"The work we are doing to develop a dedicated Clean Energy Precinct (CEP) will not only position Port of Newcastle as the largest energy export port in the country but will also drive the Hunter Region's diversification. This work can't be done in a vacuum," Mr Carmody said.

"The Port of the future will need a workforce of the future, and, by bringing internationally renowned programs like H2GP to the Hunter with the support of local schools and the University of Newcastle, we hope to inspire and nurture the next generation of clean energy engineers, designers, technicians, leaders, and thinkers."

As part of the program, students will learn about alternative fuels, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability, while working collaboratively to bring their designs to life.

Their hard work will culminate in a four-hour endurance race, with the winning school going on to compete in state, national and international races.

State Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp MP, said, "This is a wonderful way to support our next generation of thinkers as they engage with clean energy leaders. This will provide a platform for our local students to contribute to Newcastle's vision for a sustainable future."

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, said the program was a great opportunity to show the next generation what their future careers could look like and have some fun.

"Our University is critical to our region's energy transformation - we'll be helping to build the workforce needed for our new industries and jobs of the future," Professor Zelinsky said.

"It's incredibly rewarding for our academics to be involved in such a meaningful initiative. By sharing their expertise and mentoring these students, they will help demonstrate the exciting potential of a career in the clean energy sector. These early experiences can really shape a student's trajectory and show them what's possible."

Participating schools include Warners Bay High School, Rutherford Technology High School, Merewether High School, Irrawang High School and Callaghan College Waratah Campus.

Merewether High School Principal, Rochelle Dooley said, "At Merewether High School, we are committed to empowering our students to become innovators and leaders in the fields of science and sustainability. Participating in the Hydrogen Grand Prix provides an incredible opportunity for our students to develop real-world skills and a passion for clean energy solutions, which are essential for shaping a brighter future for our planet."

Port of Newcastle's Clean Energy Precinct is supported by the Australian and NSW governments alongside industry partners and, once fully developed, will contribute $4.2 billion to the nation's economy and generate 5,800 new jobs in the Hunter by 2040.

To find out more click here.

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