Xander Radoll, 16, from Bungendore, joined 25 other young Australians selected from across the country to participate in the National Questacon Invention Convention at The Ian Potter Foundation Technology Learning Centre, Canberra, on Monday-Thursday, January 16-20.

The five-day gathering provided young Australians the opportunity to develop and build prototypes of their ideas under the guidance of specialist innovation professionals. Before attending the event, Xander said he was looking forward to attending the event.

“I’m excited to be selected to attend the National Invention Convention. This is a great opportunity to network with peers and work with Australia’s leading innovators and entrepreneurs,” he said.

The young delegates attended workshops to develop their creative design and innovation skills. Professor Graham Durant, Questacon director, said the convention provided participants an opportunity to see the wide range of career pathways available in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

“The National Invention Convention delegates were able to talk and work with leaders in innovation to develop their own prototypes and ideas,” Professor Durant said.

“The week-long National Invention Convention inspires future innovators and encourage them to develop creative thinking skills critical to Australia’s future,” he said.

The convention concluded with a gala dinner attended by the delegates and invited guests, including the innovation professionals who provided guidance during the week. The National Invention Convention was proudly supported by IP Australia and is part of the $14.5 million Questacon Smart Skills Initiative, funded by the Australian Government in partnership with The Ian Potter Foundation.