We are thrilled to announce that four Geography students from Ormiston College have taken out first place in the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) GIS Challenge. This year-long competition encourages students to tackle local environmental issues linked to biospheric SDGs and create innovative solutions using cutting-edge GIS technology.
The SDG GIS Challenge brings together schools, universities, and local government to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and spatial thinkers. By combining education and industry, the initiative gives students hands-on experience with real-world data, sustainability frameworks, and professional GIS tools widely used in environmental, conservation, and planning sectors.
Judges from Griffith University and Brisbane City Council praised the exceptional standard of submissions and the students’ ability to link spatial insights with environmental impact.
The winning project submitted by Ormiston College students entitled, ‘When Strangers Take Root: Invasive Species on Coochiemudlo Island,’ explored how invasive plants threaten native ecosystems and biodiversity. Harnessing the power of ArcGIS Online, Survey123, and StoryMaps, the team collected field data, analysed patterns, and presented their findings through an engaging StoryMap (View the StoryMap here). Their work showcased how science, technology, and creativity can combine to drive real-world environmental action.
Jennah Williams, National Science and Education Manager at Esri Australia, commended the achievement, saying it was “a shining example of how geospatial science can drive meaningful environmental change and empower the future of STEM learning.”
This incredible accomplishment reflects the hard work, innovation, and dedication of our students, supported by Roslyn Minnikin and the Geography Department. Congratulations to our students for their hard work, innovation, and inspiring use of geospatial technology to make a real-world impact.
