Posted August 2008 Physical challenge inspires budding animators
		A skilled soccer player with fancy footwork; an enthusiastic inventor and his wayward lawn mower; a tricky BMX bike challenge and a casual game of basketball were the big winners of the Learning Place’s 2008 Online Animation Festival.

Drawing their inspiration from the 2008 – Year of Physical Activity, Queensland students submitted work, either individually or in groups, for the competition run through the Learning Place by Smart Classrooms Mentors.

The winners were River from Mater Hospital Special School; Ben, Bryce, David, Dylan, Joshua, Marc, Michael and Ty from Arundel State School SEU; Joshua and Tristan from Denison State School; and Leah, Angus and Ethan from Maryborough West State School.

Learning Place senior project officer Lyndall Owbridge says the competition is a great example of students and teachers using ICT in the classroom. “Many of the Professional Standards for Teachers were prominent in this activity with students collaborating in the creation of their animations, integrating ICT to enhance their learning then connecting with the world beyond school as they posted their work online. The teachers involved are to be commended for providing the opportunity for their students to participate in this event.”

Each winner receives an online chat with Oscar-nominated Australian animator Anthony Lucas, creator of the popular short animation The Mysterious Geographic Explorations of Jasper Morello. They will also receive a certificate and online award for their school’s website.