23/09/2026
Engineering thinking moved from the classroom to the testing rig as St John’s hosted the 2026 Battle of the Bridges.
Around 75 Year 9 St John’s Design and Engineering Technology and Engineering students joined Years 8 and 9 students from Westside Christian College and Corinda State High School for a day of design, problem-solving and competition.
Working with a limited supply of balsa wood, glue and twine, students were challenged to engineer and construct a 700mm prototype bridge that balanced strength, efficiency, innovation and aesthetics. Each design was presented to a panel of engineers, educators and Old Collegians before moving to the testing rig, where loads were progressively increased until the bridge reached its limit.
Thirteen awards recognised achievement across engineering, construction, creativity and performance, including the new Aesthetics & Design Award.
The competition brought STEM learning to life, challenging students to test ideas, refine their thinking and see engineering principles perform under pressure.