Tag: BotBuilders

Northgate Robotics Team Clinches Victory at Melbourne Tournament

Congratulations to BotBuilders, a Northgate-based robotics team that captured the top spot at the Melbourne Robotics Tournament, showcasing the skills and creativity of local youths in a challenging competition!

Read: Northgate BotBuilders Shine in First Tech Challenge

Unexpected Triumph

On their first outing to the Melbourne Robotics Tournament held from the 5th to 7th July 2024, the BotBuilders, comprised of teenagers and young adults aged between 15 and 21, impressed seasoned competitors by winning the event. 

The team participated in the FIRST Robotics Competition, an off-season event that allows teams to test and refine their robots and strategies between official seasons.

Northgate BotBuilders
Photo Credit: Supplied

Team Dynamics and Preparation

The BotBuilders team, which gathers at a studio in Northgate, consists of members from across Greater Brisbane, extending as far as Rochedale and up to the Sunshine Coast. Guided by adult mentors, these youths take on various roles, from mechanical and electrical design to programming and strategy.

Their collaborative efforts over nine weeks are focused on designing and building a robot capable of competing under strict game rules.

Despite being new to this level of competition, the BotBuilders used two off-season competitions—the Melbourne Robotics Tournament and Duel Down Under in Sydney—to hone their design, manufacturing, and coding skills. Their robot, noted for its compact design and agile performance, excelled in the 2.5-minute matches by navigating a basketball-sized field and scoring points efficiently.

Northgate BotBuilders
Photo Credit: Northgate BotBuilders

Future Aspirations

Mrs. Pollard, a coach of the BotBuilders, remarked on the importance of robotics in fostering confidence and resilience among youths, especially those who might feel out of place in other settings. The team is now focused on developing their skills further for their official competition season starting in January 2025, with aspirations to qualify for the FIRST Robotics World Championships in Houston, USA.

Read: An Australian First! Northgate’s Valiant Space Sends Components Into Orbit

The BotBuilders are actively engaging in community activities to raise funds for their upcoming competitions. They will showcase their robotics talents at several local events, including the RoboRave Australia World Championships, The Pine Rivers Show, and The Ekka, where they aim to promote STEM and their team’s achievements.

Northgate BotBuilders Shine in First Tech Challenge

Photo Credit: Facebook / Councillor Adam Allan

Local robotics talents Blue BotBuilders and Red BotBuilders have made quite an impression at the state qualifying event of the First Tech Challenge and are now preparing to make a strong showing at the Australian Nationals.

Read: Did You Know There Is A New Scam Targeting Businesses In North Brisbane?

At the state qualifying event, BotBuilders secured an impressive 2nd place in the robot game.

First Tech Challenge
Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/Facebook

Their collaborative efforts within a strategic three-team alliance not only showcased their technical proficiency but also highlighted their teamwork and innovative spirit, earning them well-deserved recognition within the competition circuit.

First Tech Challenge
Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/Facebook

First Tech Challenge (FTC) is a competition that demands creativity and technical finesse. Teams comprising 13- to 17-year-old students undertake the task of designing, constructing, refining, and programming a 45cm cubed robot.

This robot operates within a 3.3-meter square game field, navigating and executing specified tasks that put their technical expertise and collaborative skills to the test.

First Tech Challenge
Photo Credit: FIRST

Beyond the competitive aspect, FTC catalyses innovation and learning, encouraging students to delve into problem-solving, prototype development, and networking with industry professionals. It’s a remarkable conduit that seamlessly integrates scientific principles and engineering, offering an immersive experience for these budding innovators.

As the Australian Nationals approach, slated for the 9th and 10th of December, the entire Northgate community eagerly anticipates the BotBuilders’ upcoming performance.

Northgate Cr Adam Allan, alongside the community, has extended heartfelt well-wishes and steadfast support to these young STEM pioneers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our region’s technological advancement and future innovation.

Read: Norths Devils Assumes Lease on Warburton Park Sporting Field, Ensures It Stays With Rugby League

For residents of Northgate intrigued by robotics or eager to engage with these prodigious talents, BotBuilders eagerly welcomes inquiries and potential collaborations. Interested individuals can easily reach out to them via email at botbuilders.au@gmail.com.

Published 2-December-2023