Spinifex State College students took part in the 20/20 Opti-Vision Youth Forum, and three were rewarded for their conduct by taking out the Spirit of Opti-Minds award.

Three teams, with a total of 12 students, competed in the team challenge program, which empowered participants to think, create and communicate in a public way. 

A team of three year 9 girls–  including Katie George-Sloan, Tara Cherian and Krystal Wright (pictured) – received their Spirit of Opti-Minds award for their attitude, support for each other, inclusiveness, strong leadership qualities and teamwork. 

More than 800 students participated in this year’s national finals event. 

The event raised such issues as text talk and the link it has between elderly and young people, music as therapy, and the need to protect our honey bees. 

Krystal said the forum was a great experience. Spinifex students spent a month raising money to attend the event, and were grateful for the support from Rotary, parents and the school community. 

Spinifex State College junior campus teacher Zoie Bellingham said students and staff were looking forward to attending the event again next year. 

 “Spinifex students represented our region with pride,’’ she said. 

‘‘We appreciate the community support, in particular Rotary, in helping students travel down to this event and both students and staff are looking forward to continuing with the Opti-Minds program next year.”