Some astounding inventions have shown the high level of creativity in the minds of Australian high-schoolers.

Entrants in this years’ BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Awards have not shied away from the big challenges faced at major research labs.

Though the final winner will be announced next week, the competition itself has been a resounding victory for engineering and innovation in local schools.

The inventions developed by the young finalists include; an electronic glove for using hand gestures to control computers, phones, lights, stereos and other appliances; an organic light-weight bamboo bike; an app to warn drivers of approaching emergency vehicles; a technique to remove nutrients and pollutants using wetland plants; and a forward facing rowing machine.

“This year’s finalists are tackling at high school some things that are being tackled in leading research laboratories,” CSIRO Chief Executive, Dr Megan Clark says.

“They have taken on great challenges, like wireless power transmission, bamboo bikes, food production, pollution and helping stroke victims to recover. They inspire us with their courage.”

Aside from the excellent educational opportunities the entrants have also been gunning for a first prize of $4000, with thousands more for runners up and other entrants.

This year’s incredible creations solidify the BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Awards’ place as the most prestigious school science prize in the country.

“Science will always be at the core of understanding how we address human, environmental and business challenges while engineering helps us find the way to do it,” BHP Billiton CEO Andrew Mackenzie said.

“That’s why we have supported these awards for over 30 years.”

CSIRO has posted a blog entry highlighting some of the awesome creations.

More details are also available in the following video;