A record 20 secondary schools are gearing up for the fourth SA Power Networks VEX Robotics Schools Challenge, aiming to create robots to help solve real-world safety challenges.

The challenge 

Each year, the robotics challenge gives South Australian high school students, both metropolitan and regional, the opportunity to explore robotics for solving a real-world problem faced by SA Power Networks. To do this, they receive a VEX Robotics kit, mentoring and other support.  

This year’s challenge is to create a robot that can identify the temperature of a joint on our powerline network, notify the crew and if required, safely replace the hot joint.  

Previous years have challenged the students to build robots that can inspect SWER lines, operate disconnect arms in substations, and operate fuse switches.

Students can also choose to take part in a bonus challenge, including one involving automation. 

“We’re really excited to see what the kids come up with, and have created challenges from basic to advanced so every team can compete at a level that suits them,” Innovation Manager Leanne Robinson said. 

SA Power Networks held its first VEX Robotics schools challenge in 2021 with 12 schools, and it has since become an annual event.

In recognition of the event, VEX Robotics named us Partner of the Year in 2022. 

The challenge will culminate with the Robotics Showcase on Thursday 27 June, when the schools will put their robots to the test and compete for awards and prizes.

The schools 

We have a record number of schools participating this year, with eight new schools taking part and some schools entering two teams.  

Schools new to the challenge

• Christies Beach High School
• Findon Technical College 
• Gleeson College 
• Heathfield High School 
• Investigator College 
• Mercedes College 
• Mitcham Girls High School 
• Whyalla Secondary College 

Schools returning to the challenge

• Banksia Park International High School 
• Berri Regional Secondary College 
• Gawler and District College 
• Hamilton Secondary College 
• Mid North Christian College 
• Oakbank Area School 
• Pulteney Grammar School 
• Reynella East College 
• St Martins Lutheran College 
• Streaky Bay Area School 
• Victor Harbor High School 
• Woodcroft College 

Highlights from 2023

Watch highlights from last year’s showcase in the video below.