Former Bunbury Catholic College student Bron Ayre has been named as a winner in the WA FameLab competition.
After graduating high school in Bunbury, Ms Ayre moved to Perth to study science at The University of Western Australia.
Her current research focuses on the preservation of the WA state floral emblem – the red and green kangaroo paw.
Ms Ayre took out first place at the WA FameLab semi final with her research on understanding the critical role birds play in pollinating South Western plants.
Winning the semi final qualified her for a spot in the national event where she will compete against 12 other scientists for a chance to be flown to London to compete in the FameLab International grand final against 25 other nations.
“I chose to compare bird and bee pollinators. Many don’t realise that bird pollination is essential for the survival of Kangaroo Paws – bees just don’t do the job,” Ms Ayre said.
She said the competition has been an exciting chance to share her chosen topic with other scientists.
“Everyone is so passionate about their research, it’s really inspiring to be part of this,” she said.
After completing her tertiary studies at the UWA’s residential college University Hall, Ms Ayre based her research lab in The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority in Kings Park.
Ms Ayre will contest the national grand final at the WA Maritime Museum in Fremantle on Thursday, May 4.
To live stream the grand final, visit australiascience.tv/live-event/famelab-australia-2017-final.
