WORLD'S BEST SCIENCE STUDENTS TACKLE ZOO

News Source: Sunshine Coast Daily, page 7, Thursday 15th July, 2004
By: Belinda Warren

Overseas visitors leave with fond memories of our wildlife and culture

 When Anwar Alsayegh of Kuwait was told she was coming to Australia she was more worried about our attitude towards her than a week of competition against the world’s top biology students.

Anwar and a few hundred of the brightest biology students from 42 countries are in Brisbane competing in IBO2004 – an elite science competition.

Yesterday their trip to Australia Zoo marked a break from competition after five hours of practical exams on Tuesday.

And Anwar, who plans to study medicine, was not only thrilled with our wildlife, culture and the natural environment. She was also amazed at Australians’ welcoming attitude and friendly, casual manner.

“You all mix freely and when I go home I will remember your towns and your different atmosphere,” she said.

“I will remember the freedom – you can feel the freedom here and you can go anywhere and are not so restricted.”

International Biology Olympiad spokesperson Dr Colin Taylor said the students came to Australia thinking it was all work, but it was much more than that – it was the start of their scientific careers.

“It’s about building bridges, putting networks in place for students with common interests and common passions for many years to come,” Dr Taylor said.

“This visit is about taking the opportunity to show a little bit of Australia…”