It is the first time students from the region have received the award named after the legendary heart surgeon, in recognition of their achievements in scientific studies.

Reece hopes the award will help him fulfill his dream of being an armaments engineer in the air force.

The year 11 student was both surprised and honoured by the award.

“It is something I definitely didn’t expect,” said Reece, who is studying both chemistry and physics.

The recipients were nominated by their teachers for demonstrating the highest achievement in scientific studies throughout the year.

“It is a great honour just to be nominated by my teachers,” he said.

“I didn’t even know I had been nominated. The first I knew anything about the award was when the deputy principal arrived at the door of our science lab and gave me an envelope.

“It was a huge surprise.”

Reece and his fellow recipients were presented with their awards at a ceremony at the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus.

The students will now have the opportunity to visit the Victor Chang Cardiac Institute and carry out scientific experiments under the supervision of leading researchers.

“That should be a great experience and one I’m looking forward to.”

Reece hopes to attend the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) and become an armaments engineer in the air force.