The 2025 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education have been celebrated in Toowong, recognising students, educators, and schools across Queensland for outstanding contributions to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Toowong Ceremony Highlights STEM Talent
Toowong was the centre of recognition for the 22nd annual Peter Doherty Awards, which acknowledged the achievements of Queensland students, teachers, schools and education partners. A total of 28 recipients were named across eight categories, each receiving $5,000 to support future learning, professional development or STEM initiatives.
Queensland Academy Students Among Winners
Three students from the Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology were recognised in the Outstanding Senior STEM Student category. Claire Kong was awarded for her research into human papillomavirus and cervical cancer immunotherapies, with her work presented nationally and internationally. Fellow recipients from the school included Ermia Firouzabadi and Katherine Lu.
Other Student Awardees
Students from across the State were represented among the winners. Crystal Tsao from Brisbane State High School, Deeva Hero from All Saints Anglican School, and Lily Gochee from Cairns State High School were among the 15 recipients recognised for their senior STEM achievements. Awards were also presented to students from Kawana Waters State College, Cannon Hill Anglican College, Gordonvale State High School, and Merrimac State High School.
Special Categories in 2025
The awards extended to additional categories. Brianna Freeman-Robinson from Highfields State Secondary College received recognition as the Outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior STEM Student. Rural and remote awards went to Katelyn Worsnop from Charters Towers School of Distance Education and Priya Taylor-Sidhu from Emerald State High School.
Teachers and Support Officers Recognised
Educators were acknowledged for their contribution to STEM learning, including Cassie Day of Rochedale State High School and Wendy Agnew of Indooroopilly State High School. Timothy Bateup from Roma State College received the rural and remote teacher award, while Hilary Maloney from Proserpine State High School was recognised as an Outstanding STEM Support Officer.
Partnerships and School Contributions
The STEM Education Partnership Awards highlighted Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre and The University of Queensland. These organisations were acknowledged for their continued role in advancing STEM opportunities across Queensland schools.
Background to the Awards
The awards, named after Brisbane-born Nobel Prize recipient Professor Peter Doherty, began in 2004 and reached their 22nd year in 2025. The program was launched to highlight innovation and commitment to STEM learning, with past winners going on to lead in areas including immunology, astrophysics, and sustainable technology.
Looking Ahead
Nominations for the 2026 round of awards will open in Term 1, 2026. Winners are encouraged to use their awards for further study, professional development, and expanded STEM opportunities.
Published 18-Aug-2025
