Engineering Roars to Life
Wenona’s biennial STEM Car Show made its return last week, filling the Undercroft with an inspiring and eclectic collection of vehicles.
Begun in 2013, the Show is now a Wenona institution and a cornerstone of our commitment to inspiring the next generation of female engineers.
Organised by Director of STEM, Dr Alisha Thompson, and her students, the Show ‘peels back the bonnet’ on automotive science and engineering. It complements Wenona's robust STEM program and is toured by students from Kindergarten to Year 12 who come ready with their well-informed questions.
The 2025 Show boasted several standout attractions designed to spark a fascination with machines. They included the sleek lines of the University of New South Wales Redback Racing team's groundbreaking ‘RB24’. A hybrid electric-autonomous vehicle, it is capable of driving itself and represents the culmination of efforts from 150 students across various faculties of the university.
Also sharing her knowledge with the students was 22-year-old race car driver, Ms Louise Taylor. She arrived with her 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX, with which she competes on Sydney's motorsport circuits. Ms Taylor holds a light vehicle mechanic licence and began her automotive journey at just seven years old, when she started building go-karts with her father. She now also conducts driver training for the NSW Road Racing Club and appeared at the Show alongside her colleague, Jack, who races a Mitsubishi Evo 9.
Wenona was also delighted to welcome back to campus Mr Les Whale from the Morris Minor Club of NSW. A long-time supporter of Wenona's Car Restoration Club, Mr Whale’s dedication to preserving automotive history while embracing new technologies offered students a unique perspective on the evolution of engineering.
Rounding off the display was a flight simulator that captivated students of all ages but was particularly relevant for Year 10 STEM students who are preparing for their upcoming Aeronautics unit.