The Design Club Drone Project

While the drone project culminated with the departure of the majority its creators in 2020/21, its impact resonated beyond its physical lifespan. It left behind a legacy of innovation and a narrative of student empowerment that aligns with the core values of “stewardship and belonging”. Images of the drone are emblazoned on the Clubs Minerva (intranet) page sparking curiosity amongst our current design club students. Design Club was originally called Design and Technology Club originated in 2017 as a means of organising students who were all pursuing different interests in relation to Technologies such as Robotics, Laser cutting, and Multimedia. The group was renamed Design Club in 2018 when most girls engaged in design-specific projects. The drone's story is an illustration of how Brisbane Girls Grammar fosters an environment that encourages students to explore, innovate, and learn from both successes and setbacks. It underscores the importance of nurturing a purposeful community engaged in meaningful projects that extend learning beyond the classroom. When asked to write this Objects article, a question was posed to me asking if we had a nickname for our drone. Surprisingly, the girls had not named her. There seemed to be an understanding, however, that the drone was female! It seems only fitting to me that her name should be Elspeth, in memory of Elspeth Gordon-Brown (1982), a Grammar woman who loved to fly. Elspeth’s Odyssey, with its blend of creativity, technology, and perseverance, is a microcosm of a Technologies education at Brisbane Girls Grammar School. Moving forward into that ever-pressing future, Elspeth’s Odyssey symbolises our commitment to preparing students for new challenges. It reinforces the belief that Co-Curriculum has an important role in fostering curiosity, wisdom, and creativity, helping students make a positive contribution to their world. The sky’s the limit!

Shane Skillen Head of Learning Innovation and Design Technologies