The VA enables gifted students in Years 5-8 from across the Maitland-Newcastle Catholic diocese to engage with like-minded learners who benefit from specifically designed curriculum differentiation, extension and enrichment opportunities.

These gifted learners undertake research to provide solutions to a range of real-world challenges.

Students were asked to research solutions to a problem of their choice.

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The Year 5 Holy Name Primary School student, who joined the project this year, chose to investigate the issue of tourists leaving rubbish around the Forster region during peak holiday periods.

As part of her investigation into this topic, Emilia created an online survey asking a diverse range of relevant questions such as: What strategies could be implemented to reduce negative environmental impacts from tourism at Forster?

The responses and follow-up questions helped her to develop a deeper understanding of the topic.

Emilia then incorporated her impressive artistic skills into the project by designing a new key tag to encourage the use of Earn and Return stations, located in both Forster and Tuncurry.

Perhaps most impressively, Emilia designed a new recycling method called The Bag.

This was an original concept that involved Emilia using her sewing and graphic design skills to create a portable bag for holidaymakers to easily recycle their rubbish.

"Emilia independently produced an outstanding project with a technically advanced 16-minute video and amazing original solutions," VA teacher, Justin Mahoney said.

"Her tourist key tag was very creative and would be an effective promotional strategy.

"I'm really impressed with how Emilia created an innovative recycling bag and think this would be a very practical strategy.

"Hopefully the local council can take some of Emilia's ideas on-board."

Presenting her ideas in a video presentation, Emilia said her key tag idea was designed to act as a gentle reminder for tourists to remember recycling habits while on holidays.

"Also, I realised I could help holidaymakers keep their rubbish under control with a new type of recycling bag," she said.

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"The idea behind my bag is that it will be designed out of recycled fabric and be lined with a water repellent recyclable plastic that can be wiped out and re-used.

"I think this new type of bag could be attached to my key tag and placed in all accommodation outlets around Forster."

In recognition of her impressive research project and positive attitude, Emilia received a special Virtual Academy Personal Best Award from the Maitland-Newcastle Catholic Schools office.

Australia's future is certainly looking bright with such young creative minds already thinking of outstanding ideas.

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