Xavier Catholic College students were given a hands-on look at how molecular biology can be used to care for the Territory’s natural resources. Photo: Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Highly respected scientists visited Wurrumiyanga in the Tiwi Islands recently to provide a biosecurity and biology workshop for students of Xavier Catholic College as well as Tiwi rangers and elders.
Principal molecular scientist Dr Sonu Yadav and molecular scientist Ash Tonkin-Reeves, from the Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), hosted the well-received sessions.
“Xavier Catholic College was very happy to welcome the team from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries,” college principal Rhett Bowden said.
“It was an engaging and highly interesting session, and the students were positive about the learning experience.
”Our school thanks the team for their efforts and for making the trip to the island.”
The initiative aimed to educate students about the critical role biosecurity plays in the NT and inspire them to pursue science and improve relations and engagement with the community in efforts to better biosecurity.
The workshop introduced students to DNA as a biosecurity diagnostics tool, providing an insight into how molecular biology helps detect plant pests and pathogens.
The DAF’s diagnostics team uses this cutting-edge technology to support biosecurity surveillance and to protect agriculture, biodiversity and the Territory’s natural resources.
“It’s important that kids learn science so they can look after Country in the future,” Tiwi Ranger Derek Puruntatameri said.
”They need new knowledge because there will be new challenges for them in the future.”
The initiative, delivered with joint funding from the Commonwealth Northern Australia Biosecurity Strategy (NABS) and the DAF, uses interactive, physical activities as well as insect trapping and microscopy to teach students about the uses and wonders of science and the role it plays.
The workshop was led by Dr Yadav, a 2025-2026 Science and Technology Australia Superstar of STEM, who is deeply passionate about giving Territorians a taste of science.
“I am excited to share my experiences in STEM and demonstrate how DNA and molecular science is transforming biosecurity,” Dr Yadav said.
“This initiative fosters curiosity and passion for STEM careers, empowering the next generation of scientists.”
