THE HON JENNY AITCHISON MP
NSW MINISTER FOR REGIONAL TRANSPORT AND ROADS
MERYL SWANSON MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PATERSON
KATE WASHINGTON MP
STATE MEMBER FOR PORT STEPHENS
SONIA HORNERY MP
STATE MEMBER FOR WALLSEND
MEDIA RELEASE - M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY EXTENSION TO RAYMOND TERRACE PROJECT INSPIRING YOUNG INNOVATORS WITH STEM EDUCATION PROGRAM
The Hunter’s youngest innovators have been given a taste of life on one of the region’s biggest infrastructure projects.
Nearly 300 students from 10 local schools today visited the project site for the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace. (M12RT)
It marked the launch of the M12RT project’s new School Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education program.
It gives students options to explore various careers in civil construction, interact with industry professionals, and witness firsthand how STEM principles are applied in real-world projects.
The program will run across the next two years and is an initiative aimed at inspiring and engaging young minds in the dynamic fields of STEM in civil construction.
As part of today’s event, a variety of exhibitors and hands-on activities provided attendees with an in-depth look at the innovative STEM programs that will be available through the M12RT School STEM Education Program.
The M1 Pacific Motorway extension and Hexham Straight widening projects are being funded jointly with a total investment of $2.240 billion - $1.792 billion provided by the Federal Government and $448 million from the NSW Government.
More information about the M1 extension project is available at https://caportal.com.au/tfnsw/m1rt
The Hexham Straight Widening program’s website also has more information at https://caportal.com.au/tfnsw/hexham-straight
Vision pack available here - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/c2p9bt7z66fmvempfj83o/AOFLm532a7fo4uPn5O7dGR8?rlkey=5022zoaizg73sh91utxmd5xs8&st=30zt2rs7&dl=0
Quotes attributed to NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison
“Combined with the Hexham Straight Widening project, the M1 Pacific Motorway extension will significantly improve journeys for local motorists, visitors and the freight industry.
“In addition to that, the project’s new School Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program will deliver real-world skills and career opportunities for students and address genuine industry demands.”
Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson
“Today is an exciting day for the M1 Pacific Motorway with hundreds of students experiencing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how major infrastructure is built.
“The Australian and NSW Governments are committed to completing the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace project to ease congestion, improve traffic flow and reduce traffic volumes on the surrounding road network.”
Quotes attributed to State Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington
“This is an exciting initiative, which aims to build a strong pipeline of the skills we need for the future.
“It’s great that local students are seeing good careers on their doorstep and the opportunities that lie ahead in engineering and construction.”
Quotes attributed to State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery
“The M12RT School STEM Education Program will ignite curiosity and foster a passion for STEM among young students.
“I’m pleased to see young people taking an interest in a significant infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity and improve travel efficiency in the region.”
5 DECEMBER 2024
MEDIA CONTACT:
MINISTER AITCHISON – WENDY FITZGIBBON 0408 427 540
