In June-July 2007, five Year 12 students from all around Australia were given a once in a

lifetime opportunity to travel to Russia for a scientific study tour hosted by the All-Russian

Youth Aerospace Society, following their participation in the National Youth Science Forum

(NYSF) in January. The tour combined a week trekking near Kununurra in North Western

Australia and two weeks exploring Russia.

The purpose of the tour was to represent Australia, experience a country

and culture totally differento our own, and observe the science and

technology behind the space program of a major world player. There was

also a major emphasis on developing leadership, teamwork and time

management skills. Being placed into an environment outside our comfort

zone, we were all tested individually, resulting in us, ultimately,

becoming a stronger group within Australia's aspiring future scientists

and leaders.

The Russian Scientific Study_Tour 2007

We were all given the task of fundraising $5, 500 as a contribution to our

travels, and we each had to juggle our already hectic Year 12 lives in

order to do so. Despite very stressful and sometimes difficult moments for

both us and our families, we all managed to reach this target. Our success

would not have been possible were it not for the help and support of our

fantastic families, schools. sponsors, individual mentors and the Rotary

Clubs of Australia.