KZ: Hi Hannah! What was the hardest part of your project?

H: The hardest part was identifying all the amazing waterbugs I found! They can be tiny! My favorite was the Damselfly Nymph.

KZ: Did you learn anything new or surprising while conducting your research?

I learned that concrete stormwater canals have a lot less waterbug biodiversity than Naturalised canals. Naturalised canals are so much better for our rivers. I also learned how to use some pretty awesome water testing equipment!

KZ: If you received a prize with your award, what was it and how will you use it?

H: I was lucky enough to receive prize money which I am saving up!

KZ: Why should K-Zoners enter the competition?

H: The STANSW Young Scientist competition is great for kids that love science! It’s the chance to experience writing a real life scientific report, and learning about things like fair tests and variables. STANSW has given me the opportunity to create some good ideas to help our environment! These ideas are thoroughly researched and tested. The structure of the competition requirements can create fantastic results!

KZ: What advice would you give to K-Zoners who want to enter but don’t know where to start?

H: I encourage all kids to go for it! Find a topic that you are passionate about, and then think of ideas to support or challenge your passion! Talk to your teacher, and head over to the STANSW website for some fantastic information, like the chance to check out past projects!

Read more of Hannah's interview in the June 2020 issue of K-Zone, on sale now!