Agricultural
15 June, 2026
Hermitage Schools Science Competition
Entries are open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 30th annual Hermitage Schools Science Competition.
It’s a competition that has attracted entries from several local schools over the years, one of the most successful being Pilton State School.
From stealthy spores to disease defying crops, this year, students will discover the array of diseases that impact our crops, gaining insights into microscopic pathogens, plant biology, physiology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
Students can also contribute to Australia’s monitoring of regional fungicide resistance in crop pathogen populations.
Interest is soaring with more than 3,600 students from 124 schools across the country already registered to take part this year.
Hermitage Schools Science Competition activities are aligned to the Australian school curriculum, making it easy for teachers to incorporate the competition project into their learning programs.
Students can enter one or all three award categories:
• Science Project Awards
• Art in AgRiculTure Awards
• Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.
School registrations for this year’s competition are open until this Friday, 12 June with student entries closing Friday, 26 June 2026.
All entrants will be in the running for a selection of awards and prizes and winners will be announced on 27 August at the Hermitage Research Facility’s annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.
Hermitage Project Officer Kerrie Rubie said this year’s competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about plant diseases and the impact they have on Australian agriculture and global food security.
“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of diseases that threaten our crops, natural environment, economy and food security,” Ms Rubie said.
“Students will also learn about how science contributes to developing disease-resistant crops and improved, sustainable farming practices.
“The Science Project Awards involve hands-on, plant pathology experiments, focusing on net form net blotch of barley and powdery mildew of mungbeans to engage and attract interest in our agricultural industry and careers in related fields.”
“Students can also get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards and get outdoors into nature with the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.”
“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry.
“I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about plant diseases and their impact on agriculture and food security.”
