I have been involved in robotics for a number of years now and it never ceases to amaze me that robots in an unfamiliar environment behave in unexpected ways. What worked yesterday can, at times, mysteriously malfunction.

The day started with some pressure to urgently debug and problem-solve errors in the code. The search and rescue teams were stretched to the limit to overcome the mysterious phenomenon of robots behaving badly. The rescue competition consists of four rounds. At the end of round one, there was much frustration and we performed at a level below what we had anticipated. As the day unfolded, our error detection and problem-solving skills, along with much perseverance and grit got us through to the end of the fourth-round. Each round presented new challenges but we had managed make improvements. Hannah should be commended for not only giving Robocup a go as a first-time competitor but also for competing solo on the day as her partner was unavailable.

In the Theatre division there was more room to be creative and flexible. The Australian and New Zealand robots took the stage in a sporting arena to perform a range of races. Millie’s narration could be modified if the robots misbehaved. Her timing of the movement of the robots and the visual performance was amazing. All the angst and hours to prepare for the two minutes on stage was well worth it.

Robotics is more that just coding! It not only enables our girls to have an opportunity to learn to programme but also to develop essential skills in a real setting. Often family members also go through the stress and frustrations that these keen programmes are experiencing. It is with family support and willingness to take a risk that these girls learn to adapt to unforeseen challenges. Rarely does everything work out perfectly on the day. Robocup is reknown for providing an experience with the whole spectrum of tears through to ultimate joy. On this occasion we all performed absolutely stupendously. I am proud that you represented St Margaret’s College with such positivity.

SMC Robocup Team: Millie Edwards, Hannah Waring, Claudia Hundleby (in absentia), Tessa Sitjes, Lucy Eyre-Walker, Mel Leaderland and Jessika Sanders.

Results for the regional robot Robo Competition:

First Senior Theatre Competition: Millie Edwards - year 7

First and Premier Search and Rescue Competition: year 9 students: Tessa Sitjes, Lucy Eyre-Walker, Jessika Sanders and Mel Leatherland