The Wackadoos turns electric vehicle racing into a hands-on, real-world learning adventure.
Electrifying Futures
Greenpower Australia launched in Port Macquarie
Greenpower Australia inspires young people across the country by challenging them to work together in teams to design, build, and race single-seater electric vehicles. Originating from the UK, where Greenpower Education Trust celebrates over 25 years of success, the program has expanded globally, with over 700 teams and 10,000 students participating annually. Greenpower Australia is now part of this growing international network, welcoming schools and community groups from across the nation to join this exciting STEM initiative.
The Wackadoos is offering the Greenpower Australian program for young people in the Port Macquarie region.
We’re building two small teams of 12. The two teams will run side by side so you can start where you’re at and grow over time.
F24 Team (ages 12–16)
• Build and race the official Greenpower Kit Car
• Great for emerging STEM learners and younger secondary students
F24+ Team (ages 16–25)
• Design and build a custom electric vehicle from scratch
• Perfect for advanced makers, senior students and young adults in the region
Sessions will run on weekday afternoons during school term. Exact location, days and times will be confirmed during the selection process once teams are chosen. Each session includes reflection and planning time, so young people help shape what happens next.The race days are the celebration at the end, but most of the magic happens along the way – learning how to design, build, test and improve your team’s electric vehicle, and sharing what you’ve created with your community during National Science Week.
The program will wrap up with a GreenSTEM Education Greenpower Australia race in Sydney at the end of August and a National Greenpower Australia Final in Burnie, Tasmania in December.
Electrifying Futures is about more than just a cool EV project. It’s a chance to help young people build real‑world skills, confidence and connections that can shape their futures.
Along the way, participants build the skills employers actually look for: problem solving, teamwork, resilience, planning, leadership and communication. They work with local industry mentors, see real workplaces from the inside and learn how their ideas can turn into future study, apprenticeships and jobs right here in regional NSW.
FAQs
Who can apply?
Anyone in the Port Macquarie region who fits the age brackets (12–16 or 16–25) can apply. To keep a good mix of perspectives, we’ll only accept up to three people from the same school or organisation.
Do I need any prior experience?
No. You don’t need to be a STEM expert or have built anything like this before. We encourage anyone who is curious and keen to explore a range of new skills.
What does it cost?
There is no cost to participate, but you must commit to the full year program and be willing to show up consistently for your team.
Timeline
2026 Key dates
Applications Open
Applications open at the beginning of Term 1, 2026.
Applications Close
Applications close Friday 6th March 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview and the teams announced late March.
National Science Week
15 to 23 August 2026: Teams will share what they’ve created with the community during National Science Week.
NSW All Formulas
NSW All Formulas Race held at HART NSW: Saturday 29 August 2026.
Greenpower Australia National Final
All Formulas Greenpower Australia National Final held in North West Tasmania: December (TBC).
Ready to get a little wackadoo?
We’re building our first Wackadoo crew in the Port Macquarie region. If you’re a young person, parent, educator, sponsor or potential mentor who’s curious about electric vehicles, hands-on STEM and wild ideas that might just work, we’d love to hear from you.
Share your details and we’ll be in touch with ways to get involved.
For parents & carers
The Wackadoos Electrifying Futures program is run by experienced educators and industry mentors, with a focus on safety, inclusion and real-world learning. You’ll always know what’s happening, how to get in touch and how your young person is being supported.
The Wackadoos: Electrifying Futures is supported by the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation through its Backing the Future grant program.