Southern lights shine on Deloraine students with live Antarctic chat

When an unexpected message came through from Antarctica, Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School in Deloraine jumped at the opportunity.

The offer came from former student Neve Clippingdale, now working as the outreach coordinator aboard the RSV Nuyina — Australia’s flagship Antarctic research vessel. On its maiden Denman Marine Voyage, the ship is home to scientists from the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science (ACEAS).

Determined to share her passion for science, exploration, and the icy continent, Neve organised a live video link between the ship and her old school.

“I’ve always loved science communication,” Neve says in a recent blog post. “There’s nothing better than sharing your enthusiasm and seeing someone else get just as excited about it.”

Students packed into the school hall for a Microsoft Teams chat with Neve and fellow scientists. The response was immediate — hands shot up with questions ranging from serious scientific queries to the crowd favourite: “Are you hanging upside down because Antarctica is at the bottom of the Earth?”

The session was a hit on both sides of the screen.

“It was incredible watching half the room put their hands up to ask questions,” Neve says. “The students were so involved and excited, it made it so much fun for the scientists on board.”

Science teacher Lesley Hillhouse says opportunities like this are invaluable.

“Every child arrives loaded with wonder. Events like this light up minds and show kids what’s possible beyond school,” she says. “It’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”

The RSV Nuyina’s outreach program will continue with schools in Australia, the USA, and Germany before its voyage concludes later this month.