What’s happening?
The 2025 Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition Awards Day and Ag Science Expo will take place on Thursday, 21 August 2025, from 9am to 2.30pm at the Hermitage Research Facility, 604 Yangan Road, Warwick.
Hosted by the Department of Primary Industries, the event will showcase entries in the ‘Insects in Agriculture’-themed competition and announce this year’s winners. About 230 students are expected to attend.
Why it matters
For nearly three decades, the competition has offered engaging ways for students to gain knowledge and skills across key areas of the Australian science curriculum. It links classroom learning with real agricultural science research happening at Hermitage Research Facility and across the department.
By connecting students directly with scientists, the program fosters curiosity, introduces career pathways and addresses issues that affect food security and the environment.
Local Impact
The Warwick-based Hermitage Research Facility is Queensland’s oldest agricultural research site, operating since 1897. By hosting the Awards Day locally, the event brings national attention to Warwick, strengthens school–research partnerships, and supports the Southern Downs region as a hub for agricultural science education.
By the Numbers
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230 students are expected at the 2025 event, representing schools from across Queensland and beyond.
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More than 120,000 students have taken part since the competition began in 1997.
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The program now reaches up to 200 schools and 4,000 students annually across Australia.
Zoom In
The day’s program includes keynote presentations from wild bee scientist Dr Kit Prendergast and other guest speakers, award presentations, rotational science sessions and agricultural displays in Scienceshow Alley. Students will take part in a “Bee ID and name a new species Quiz” with Dr Prendergast and enjoy the National Science Week show “Into the Unknown” by Street Science.
Zoom Out
The competition began in 1997 as part of Hermitage’s centenary celebrations with around 20 schools participating. It has since grown into one of the most significant agricultural science competitions in Australia. The initiative not only boosts classroom learning in science inquiry, understanding and human endeavour but also helps students develop skills in mathematics, English, teamwork, communication, art and technology.
What to look for next?
The Department of Primary Industries will continue to expand the program, offering more opportunities for schools nationwide to connect with agricultural science research. Future competitions are expected to inspire even more students to pursue careers in agriculture and science, meeting the rising demand in Australia’s rural industries.
For more information, visit Department of Primary Industries.