Stars of STEM honoured at 2024 Peter Doherty Awards

Published Tuesday, 13 August, 2024 at 06:00 PM

Minister for Education and Minister for Youth Justice
The Honourable Di Farmer

  • Peter Doherty Awards honour outstanding achievements in STEM education across Queensland, recognising exceptional educators, students, and schools.
  • 28 awards offered across eight categories and winners share in $140,000 in prize money

Education Minister Di Farmer has announced the winners of the 21st Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) Education.

The Awards celebrate the life and ongoing work of Brisbane-born Nobel Prize-winning scientist, Professor Peter Doherty. 

In 2024, 19 students, six teachers, one school support officer, one school and one partnership organisation were chosen as award winners from a field of 98 elite nominations.

Since 2004, 543 individuals, schools and organisations have received a Peter Doherty Award, including: 267 students; 171 teachers; 35 support officers; 36 schools; and 24 education partnerships.

The Miles Government is committed to strengthening STEM education in schools by building teacher capability and increasing achievement and participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

The Queensland Department of Education is also encouraging and supporting STEM education with a range of programs including:

  • The Premier’s Coding Challenge
  • Virtual STEM Academies
  • STEM Girl Power Initiative$15,000
  • Up to 40 scholarships of each for future STEM teachers in Regional, Rural and Remote locations
  • And most recently, the exciting new Queensland Quantum Academy to take advantage of the emerging opportunities right here in Queensland

This year’s Peter Doherty Awards’ winners can be found on the Department of Education’s website https://education.qld.gov.au/about-us/events-awards/awards-competitions/peter-doherty-awards-for-excellence-in-STEM.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Education Di Farmer:

“This year I have had so many reasons to feel proud for being Queensland’s Minister for Education. Tonight, I am prouder than ever for having the opportunity to hand out the prestigious Peter Doherty Awards to some of the most amazing students, teachers and schools in Queensland.

“Congratulations to all the 28 Peter Doherty Award winners on your outstanding achievements, enthusiasm and contributions to STEM in schools and communities.

“There has never been a better time to encourage our young people to maintain their passion for STEM and to continue on their path towards a STEM career as today.”

Media – Tim Auguston 0427 090 563