Trailblazers and Innovators: Sunshine Coast Women and Girls in STEM
Just before Christmas, Science and Technology Australia named two Sunshine Coast STEM practitioners as ‘Superstars of STEM’. Dr. Bonnie Quigley, a groundbreaking microbiologist investigating molecular markers of mental health disorders, and Dr. Libby Swanepoel, who is leading the world in seaweed and dietetic research with lifesaving public health outcomes for Pacific Island nations. These are two powerhouse women who are making the Sunshine Coast proud on a national and global stage.
Many other superstars of STEM continue their work relatively unnoticed. I think of Sandi Wallace, the 2023 Fisher Educator of the Year, whose devotion to equipping future STEM leaders has inspired hundreds of Fisher high school students. I think of Naomi Elliott, a local manufacturing giant making waves through Concept Labs.
And I think of the huge health and medical workforce based in the Sunshine Coast University Hospital precinct whose research, care, and diligence literally save lives.
So, today, we pay tribute to all of those women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics who have blazed trails for girls today to follow in their footsteps and perhaps even step beyond,” Mr. Wallace concluded.
Since 2016, I’ve been proud to secure millions of dollars to boost local STEM and innovation capacity:
$9.7 million through the Growing Innovative and Competitive Businesses, Industries and Regions Program
$2.6 million for local innovators through the Entrepreneurs Programme
$524,000 for the MIE Labs Project at UniSC
$510,000 through the Investing in Science, Tech, and Commercialisation Program
$140,000 for local Community STEM Projects
$263,000 for women’s digital leadership and development
$99,400 through the Boosting Female Founders Initiative
$64,000 for local students involved in international and national science competitions
The Coalition has put forward a bold, nation-building, and commonsense plan to get Australia back on track. This plan includes significant investments in STEM education and workforce development to ensure Australia remains competitive on the global stage. By fostering innovation and supporting STEM initiatives, the Coalition aims to create a robust pipeline of talent that will drive future economic growth and technological advancements. Find out more at www.liberal.org.au/our-plan.
