- Spring 2025
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- Celebrating International Achievements in Physics
Celebrating International Achievements in Physics
For our Physics Olympiad competitors, first experiments in the science classroom began a journey that has led to achievement at the international level. Over the past three years, our students’ skills have seen them compete against some of the world’s most talented young scientists at Olympiads across Australia, Asia and Europe.
Our competitors include Alastair Murphy, who achieved an honourable mention at both the Asian and International Physics Olympiads in 2023, Jeff Dai, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 International Youth Physics Tournament, and Eason Yang, who won gold at this year’s International Physics Olympiad, and silver at both the 2024 and 2025 Asian Physics Olympiads.
Physics Olympiads aren’t just competitions – they’re celebrations
– Eason, Year 12
who admits to feeling “a bit nervous” at the prospect of travelling overseas to compete against some of the world’s best physics students. “Looking back on the experience, I don’t think about the exams, or the medals I won. I think about the new friends I made from around the world.”
Alastair Murphy (OTG 2023) agrees that the friendships formed at Olympiads in Mongolia’s Ulaanbaatar and in Tokyo were part of what made these experiences so rewarding. “I met students from all over the world, and we got to hear from Nobel Prize laureates about their research,” says Alastair. “I hope my study of physics will lead me to a career in a meaningful field, where I can apply my knowledge to real-world challenges.”
For Jeff Dai (OTG 2024), who competed against teams from 40 countries in the International Youth Physics Tournament, the opportunity to engage in independent research has been a key part of his physics journey. “One piece of advice I’d give current students is to take advantage of every opportunity the school offers to explore beyond the curriculum,” Jeff says.
“Engaging in your own research allows you to discover new passions and skills, and builds creativity and resilience,” Jeff adds. “It helps you discover that while science might seem like an individual endeavour, it’s actually collaborative. Other people have insights and perspectives that enrich your own understanding.”
Reflecting on the achievements of these and other physics students, VCE Physics and Science teacher, Matt Sisson, emphasises that physics is a subject that can be enjoyed by any curious student, even if they don’t feel they fit the ‘science student mould’.
“One of my favourite memories is of my first Year 11 physics class, who built a 1.5 metre trebuchet as part of their investigation,” Mr Sisson says. “Students can be daunted by physics, but it’s not about the answer – it’s the question and investigation that have value.”
