Today was the official judging day. Students arrived at the Meijiang Convention Centre by 7:30am to attend their booth by 8am. There was no fanfare like ISEF, rather, photos and cheery well wishes as chaperones were separated from students. For 10 hours students were not permitted to leave the judging room. Lunch was brought to them, and they were to remain near their booth in case a judge came to see them. There was no timeline or agenda for judges to arrive, so students made the most of their day befriending nearby students, and revelled in their time with judges, spruking their projects and delighting in conversation.

After 6pm, students, chaperones and volunteers enjoyed dinner together before attending the International Youth Cultural Exchange Activity. Games and challenges were held to win prizes, there was dancing, badge and pin swapping and many many photos taken to remember new friends. Our koalas continued to be a big hit, but being Australian was novel enough in itself. Our vibrant AUSSEF team of students have had such a positive impact on so many people from so many places around the world.