In early March, several students from Barker’s Robotics team travelled to Istanbul, Turkey, to compete in the Istanbul and Bosphorus regionals Robotics competition.
This marked the debut of Barker College’s newest sub-team, the Barker Greybacks, who used this competition as an opportunity to hone their skills to match the school’s seasoned veterans.
The 2024 Robotics season kicked off on a high note, with both teams clinching victory in their respective regionals. Notably, the Redbacks secured a prestigious top 10 spot in the global rankings, out of over 3,000 teams worldwide.
The Redbacks earned accolades for the robust and sturdy design of their robot, securing the Industrial Design Award, whilst the Greybacks showcased exceptional programming consistency, and were awarded the Autonomous Award.
Reflecting on the experience, Josh, a Year 10 student, said: “It was an amazing opportunity to grow both our understanding of robotics and of other cultures.”
This sentiment resonated with Julian, a Year 12 student, who “found enrichment in meeting diverse people and experiencing new cultures during the competition.”
The camaraderie extended beyond competition boundaries, as the teams had the privilege to interact with various other teams operating from inside Turkey.
Beyond the competition arena, Barker students immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Turkish culture. Exploring landmarks such as the Basilica cistern and marvelling at the architectural wonders of mosques which offered a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
The stellar performance of the Barker Greybacks has earned them a coveted spot at the upcoming World Championship in April in the US alongside The Redbacks.
