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STEM MAD Showcase Celebrates Innovation and Collaboration

Students from across the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited (DOBCEL) gathered at the Damascus Events Centre, Damascus College, on Thursday 13 August 2026 for the STEM MAD (Making A Difference) Showcase, proudly presenting innovative projects designed to address real-world challenges and make a positive impact in their communities.

The showcase marked the culmination of the STEM MAD Collaborative Innovation Research Prototype (CIRP), a DOBCEL Strategy 2035 initiative that brings together schools, students and educators to explore authentic learning through collaboration, inquiry and innovation.

Throughout the project, students worked alongside peers, teachers and mentors to investigate issues that matter to them and develop creative STEM-based solutions grounded in Catholic Social Teaching. Through science, technology, engineering and mathematics, they demonstrated how learning can contribute to the common good, care for creation and the wellbeing of others.

A highlight of the initiative was the collaboration between students from Emmaus Catholic Primary School and St Columba's Primary School, who worked together to identify challenges and design innovative responses. Their projects reflected strong problem-solving skills, creativity and a commitment to making a meaningful difference.

DOBCEL congratulates all participating students, educators and schools for their enthusiasm, collaboration and dedication throughout the program. The showcase was a powerful reminder of the potential of STEM learning to inspire innovation, foster partnerships and empower young people to create positive change in the world.

This year's showcase celebrated not only outstanding student innovation, but also the power of collaboration across the DOBCEL community as students came together to learn, create and make a difference.

Special Guest Presenters

The showcase featured presentations from leading voices in education, innovation and technology, providing students and guests with valuable insights into contemporary learning and future-focused thinking. 

Professor Pasi Sahlberg

An internationally respected educator, author and researcher, Professor Pasi Sahlberg is recognised globally for his work in educational leadership, equity, innovation and school improvement. Currently Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Melbourne, Pasi has advised governments, educators and school systems around the world on improving learning outcomes and student wellbeing. 

Professor Sahlberg shared his insights with students and visitors and presented the DOBCEL Award, which recognises projects that most strongly reflect the pursuit of fullness of life through meaningful learning and positive impact. 

Additional presentations were delivered by representatives from Apple Education, Ballarat Tech School and other education and innovation partners. 

STEM MAD Showcase Awards

Presented in both showcase groups, this award is voted on by attendees who will select a project that has made a particularly strong impression on the day. 

People's Choice Award Session 1: St Columba's Primary School's "Self Server" 

People's Choice Award Session 1 Runner Up: Emmaus Catholic Primary School's "Hospital"

People's Choice Award Session 2: St Columba's Primary School's "Heart Harness"

People's Choice Award Session 1 Runner Up: Emmaus Catholic Primary School's "Smart Trolley"

Presented by Bishop Mark Freeman, this award recognises projects that best demonstrate Catholic Social Teaching through action, service and a commitment to the common good. 

Winner: St Columba's Primary School's "Gear Guard"

Celebrating innovative and purposeful use of technology to solve problems, improve outcomes or create positive change. 

Winner: St Columba's Primary School's "Hydrotrack"

Presented by Professor Pasi Sahlberg, this award recognises a project that exemplifies DOBCEL's vision of supporting the fullness of life through creativity, collaboration and meaningful learning. 

Winner: Emmaus Catholic Primary School's "Evermind"

Presented by the St Vincent de Paul Society, recognising projects that demonstrate a strong commitment to community engagement, service and social impact. 

Winner: St Columba's Primary School's "Shark Detector"

Winner: Emmaus Catholic Primary School's "Kinetic Energy Floors"

Judges' Award 1: St Columba's Primary School's "Kangacross"

Judges' Award 2: Emmaus Catholic Primary School's "HomeBot"

Strategy 2035 in action 

Through this CIRP, DOBCEL Strategy 2035 is being brought to life through authentic collaboration, local innovation and meaningful student learning. The STEM MAD CIRP demonstrates how schools can work together to prototype new approaches that are responsive to their context and connected to the shared mission of Catholic education. 

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