Quartet shows off geographic knowledge

An eye for geographic detail has given four Bunbury students an edge in this year’s Australian Geographical Competition.

Five students from each year at Newton Moore Senior High School were invited to enter the competition, and four out of the group were awarded high distinctions.

Year 7 students Preston Woods and Seth Bursill, Year 8 Aiden Doak, and Year 12 Denver Bell, achieved some of the highest marks.

The competition was open to geography students in high schools around Australia and consisted of multiple choice questions that tested geographic knowledge and skills.

Students completed the test between May 16 and 27 and high scorers were awarded books, special certificates and medals, depending on their grade.

Analysing maps, interpreting information and identifying geographic features were among some of the skills tested.

Denver said although the test was tough, earning one of the top results “felt great”. He said learning about geography had helped him grasp a deeper understanding of how cities worked.

“It makes you aware and understand on another level,” Denver said.

Seth said it was interesting to learn about the world and what was happening beyond plain view.

“It’s something that can take you by the heart,” he said.

The competition was founded in 1995 and last year 77,000 participants took part.