F1 in Schools kids innovate in the fast lane
These budding engineers are in the race to create a miniature Formula One car that can travel up to 80km/h in one second and take on the best in the world.
Moreton Life
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THESE budding engineers are in the race to create a miniature Formula One car that can travel up to 80km/h in one second and take on the best in the world.
The team of Year 9 students from Redcliffe State High School is part of the F1 in Schools STEM challenge competition, in which 17,000 schools from 44 countries strive to design, build and race the world’s fastest car.
P&C president and sponsor Carlos Ortega says the time to beat is one second over 20m, which is equivalent to 80km/h.
“There’s only been a few that have been able to beat that. If you can get close to one second, you’re doing really well,” Carlos says.
The school will host and compete in the program’s regional competition on July 31, with schools from Brisbane to Noosa battling it out, including Pine Rivers State High School.
From there, the winner will head to the state titles, where they will be aiming for a berth at the nationals and world finals. Students have previously travelled to Dubai, Singapore and Texas for the world finals.
The Redcliffe State High School team, David Forrest (design engineer); Lexy Arnold (team manager); Molly Wearne (manufacturing engineer) and Darcy Hannings (graphics designer) are working during lunch breaks and after school on their car.
They’re quietly confident they’re on the right track, after competing at a junior level competition last year and modifying their design. Among the changes they’ve made is adding suspension to the back wheels and modifying the front wing. “It seems pretty good. I’d say we have a chance,” Lexy says.
Teacher Phil Morrison agrees and says he’s constantly amazed by what students come up with. “I think they are in with a strong chance because they work well together and have good team cohesion,” he says.
They will make the car body by milling balsa wood, and will make the wheels and front wing using a 3D printer. Computer software has been used to design the car and simulate how it will perform.
Carlos says F1 in Schools aims to ignite a passion in engineering, which can lead to careers in aviation, motorsports and more.
The team will be part of a school activation at the next Business Moreton Bay Interactive Luncheon on July 26. Students from across the region will showcase innovation.
The Redcliffe students will put their car through its paces on the track and students involved in the First LEGO League will also showcase their creations from 11am.
BUSINESS MORETON BAY INTERACTIVE LUNCHEON
Leanne Kemp has founded multiple businesses and is Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur, so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about start-ups and innovation.
She will share her journey — the challenges, triumphs and what she’s learned along the way — at the next Business Moreton Bay Interactive Luncheon on July 26.
Leanne’s most recent start-up, Everledger, applies blockchain technology to industries where transparency, trust, and provenance matter most such as diamonds, wine and art. She now employs more than 70 people across offices in five countries.
The entrepreneur with a passion for tech was appointed Queensland Chief Entrepreneur in October.
Following her presentation, at the business luncheon, Leanne will be joined on stage by a panel of entrepreneurs and innovators to discuss the topic — using modern technology in business and day-to-day life.
The event at Eatons Hill Hotel starts at 11.30am and includes a two-course lunch, beverages, and access to an exclusive networking function. Tickets are $89.
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