Charlotte Hargan from Goulburn High and Ella Fennamore from Mulwaree High were honoured with the awards, issued at a ceremony on November 22 at Corrimal High.

The awards acknowledge students who show promise in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Named after the late cardiac surgeon and pioneer of modern heart transplantation, Dr Victor Chang, the awards were established to celebrate young and gifted students and to foster growth in scientific studies.

The students were nominated by teachers at their respective schools.

Ella Fennamore studies chemistry and biology at Mulwaree High.

She said the award encouraged students to go for a career in science.

"I have been doing well in these subjects, so the school nominated me," Ella said.

"I want to study to be a physiotherapist, so science subjects suit me for what I want to do.

"I am looking into my options about where to continue my studies when I finish school."

Charlotte Hargan studies physics and biology.

"I like STEM subjects because I am logically-minded and I think it will future-proof me in terms of a career," she said.

"When robots take over the world, I want to be in charge of the robots."

She has been actively involved in the school's robotics program and has also been a Mayor of the city's Youth Council. She is also a regular attendee of the Wollongong Science Fair.

Dr Jihan Talib from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute said by guiding and encouraging these students to consider a career in STEM, the legacy of Australian discovery will become stronger.

"By nurturing these inquisitive scientific minds, we are cementing a strong future for Australian research," Dr Talib said.

"We have such a proud history of discovery and it's through students like these, that the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics will continue to flourish in Australia.

"As a scientist you not only contribute to building knowledge and understanding, but you're also a driver in economic, environmental, health, social and technological advances. The opportunities are truly endless."

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