The prize asks students to propose and trial a solution of a contemporary water issue.

“I looked at a way of treating household grey water without having to use expensive equipment,” Stephanie said. .

“I found that by filtering grey water via plants and wetlands reduces nutrient levels in the water and the product you get from the wetlands is safer for plants.

“You can’t drink it but you can use it in your garden.”

Stephanie came up with the idea after seeing it at work on a much larger scale in Albury, where the city council has designed a project to use recycled water to revive a former wetland.

She designed a scale model at her home to undertake a controlled study of the wetland’s ability to filter grey water from her household.

Stephanie said she would continue her project if she hasdthe opportunity.

“I am not sure if it will come up in the near future but if it does the I will,” she said.

Stephanie is studying biology, chemistry and environmental science for her Higher School Certificate (HSC) this year.

She said her love for science came from a year 10 project.

“In year 10 I did a project on Moolarben and its effects on the environment and (my interest) just spiralled from there.”

Biology teacher Graham Wilson encouraged Stephanie to entered the Stockholm Junior Water Prize.

The competition brings together the world’s brightest young scientists to encourage their continued interest in water and the environment.

As one of three Australian finalists Stephanie will attend the Australian Water Association’s Ozwater ‘10 conference in Brisbane from March 8-10, where she will present her project to a panel of three judges.

If she wins, Stephanie will attend the international stage of the competition, to be held in Stockholm later this year.