By Cam Lucadou-wells
AS robotics teacher Nick Pryor puts it, Berwick Lodge Primary School’s world-beating kids could be anything.
The eight-child team Trashformers were welcomed like heroes when they returned with their Lego-brick trophy after winning the international First Lego League robatics title in Sydney.
Berwick Lodge current students Samudra and Kyra, with former students and Casey teens Kav, Zoe, Eric, Lincoln, Leo and Kyle, were up against 39 teams from 21 countries in the robot performance section at the Asia-Pacific championships.
Contenders came as far afield as Brazil, the US, Canada, Turkey, Republic of Korea, Taiwan and Japan.
Some teams were older, and some had mighty support from major engineering corporations or universities.
All were invited to the championships for being the best in their countries.
“These guys in our team are the cream of the crop,” Mr Pryor said.
“Sometimes they just leave me behind.
“This is a big deal. I wasn’t sure of coming first place, but I was hoping for top 10.”
Berwick Lodge principal Henry Grossek said the meet wasn’t all about friendly competition.
There was a fun spirit of cultural and scientific exchange, including a light-hearted opening ceremony at Sydney Opera House, conga dancing, singing and sharing food.
