2025 SASTA Annual Conference Wrap-Up
The 2025 SASTA Annual Conference, held at Glenunga International High School on Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 April, brought together 104 delegates for two days of professional learning, inspiration, and connection.
This year’s theme, Decoding Science, aligned with National Science Week and encouraged attendees to explore fresh approaches to interpreting and communicating science in the classroom. Delegates were greeted by Glenunga’s iconic inflatable dinosaur and beaker display, setting a fun and welcoming tone for the event.
Conference at a Glance
- 104 delegates registered
- 49 presenters, including:
- 2 Keynote Presentations
- 5 Cutting Edge Presentations
- 41 Workshop Presentations
- 27 representatives onsite
- 1 Gold Sponsor
- 18 Exhibitors
We extend our sincere thanks to all presenters, sponsors, and exhibitors—particularly Credit Union SA for their continued partnership.
Conference Highlights
Keynote Speakers
- Rahul Choudhary, Flinders University
Rethinking Physics Education from Newtonian to Einsteinian Paradigms in Schools - Angus Netting, Inspire STEM Education
Advanced Microscopy: Driving research, industry and student engagement
Cutting Edge Presentations
- Turning failed antibiotics into weedkillers – Dr Tatiana Soares da Costa
- Optical fibres and decoding light – Florian Calzavara
- Engineering and AI in the water sector – Jessica Bohorquez
- Latest in microplastics research – Dr Nina Wootton
- Plant genetics and diversity – Prof Michelle Waycott
Workshop Highlights
- Inspiring science in junior primary – Laura Brace
- Deep time and experiential storytelling – Vera Weisbecker
- Game-based science learning – Karl Klose & Michael Kasumovic
- The science of storytelling – Ross Riach
- Metacognition and study strategies – Renee Rees
- Design practicals in middle school – Jason Greenslade
- Nuclear submarines and radioactivity – Bridget Murphy
Awards & Scholarships
Four major honours were presented:
- Credit Union SA / SASTA Outstanding Contribution to Science Education
Matthew Little, Seaview High School - Helen Castle Memorial Scholarships
Nicole Blackwell, Bordertown Primary School
Felicia Harding, Berri Regional Secondary College - Honorary SASTA Life Membership
Peter Turnbull
Conference Prizes
Nine prizes were awarded, recognising enthusiasm, travel, school engagement, and even badge flair:
- Furthest travelled (interstate): Alice Leppitt, Northern Territory
- Furthest travelled (SA): Sai Lakshmin Laguduva Athmaraman, Whyalla
- Most consecutive conferences attended: Kathleen Best (since 2015)
- Most delegates from one school: The Heights School (4 delegates)
- First to register: Jodi Gulley
- Newest member attendee: Andrew Dempsey
- Most name badge flags: Rachel Pillar
- Best SASTA Merch Reps: Debbie Loke & Fleur Nattrass
- Most attendees from one family: Jenni Costi, Suzie Fowler & Alex Fowler
Community & Connection
Beyond formal sessions, Happy Hour brought everyone together to celebrate contributions and forge new connections—particularly among the strong cohort of primary educators in attendance this year.
SASTA is proud to support science educators with high-quality professional learning opportunities like this. Thank you to everyone who made the 2025 Conference a success.