Australia’s largest rail based transport business Aurizon has shown off its drone to Coppabella State School students as part of National Science Week.
Aurizon Service Delivery Manager for Coal North, Peter Ford said the drone was a huge hit with the students.
“The Coppabella State School students were in awe of the drone and were really interested in how we use them on a day to day basis in our operations.
“Technology is a huge part of Aurizon’s future and Network Assets currently use the drones to assist with a range of asset management activities including inspections of some 2000km of overhead line assets. Using drones is a game-changer in managing our assets, they decrease safety risks and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of asset inspections.
“It was great for the school to visit our depot during National Science Week, giving us the ability to present science and technology to the students in an engaging way.”
Coppabella State School Principal Matthew Kirkham said the day was a huge success.
“Working with Aurizon for National Science Week 2016 has been a great experience, allowing a great opportunity for students to be exposed to the drone technology that is being used widely in industry.
“Students enjoyed learning all about the technology of drones in particular the use of GPS in the flying of drones. With all questions answered I am sure that students will be talking about this wonderful experience for many months to come.”
The students were given a presentation on the drone before the day concluded with an aerial demonstration.
I really enjoyed asking questions and learning about drone technology. I loved learning about how GPS is used to help fly the drone and keep it stable in the sky,” one of the students said.