Realising his Dream

MEDIA RELEASE DATE: 13/12/18

Realising his Dream

Last week local student, Nathan Denmead along with twenty-eight other students from around the nation was selected to have a blast of a time up in Wellington. The prestigious Genesis Energy Realise the Dream event was held to celebrate excellence in research. The local model rocket enthusiast was selected to go for his research on model rocket motor performance.

Over the week the students were taken around Wellington, visiting the cities iconic attractions. This included tours of the national Isotope Centre, Karori Wildlife Sanctuary and the Weta museum. “We were even treated to a cocktail evening hosted by UNESCO at the Boat House, which was a great success. My highlight for the week though was the day at Massey University, where we built our own light seeking robotic car and a Sterling engine which could generate electricity” said Nathan.

He also said that going to Realise the Dream was a really amazing experience. Meeting like-minded people at this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity really got him exited about what science has to offer. “I would really encourage people to get involved, it’s not about being a geek, it’s about doing something you’re passionate about.”

On Thursday night a farewell BBQ was held to rap the occasion up. A number a travel awards were announced and Nathan was extremely surprised to find himself winning the Asia New Zealand Foundation Travel Award to the Beijing Youth Science Creation Competition taking place over March. “I could hardly believe it” Nathan said as he expresses his awe.

Later next year, in March, the celebratory awards dinner will be held at Te Marae, Te Papa where cash prizes of up to $7,000 and international travel to London will be presented. Genesis Energy Realise the Dream is also sponsored by DairyNZ and The New Zealand Commission for UNESCO as well as other organisations that support individual awards. For more information visit www.realisethedream.org.nz.

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