Western Plains Science and Engineering Challenge organising committee member Lyn Smith announced the return of the challenge on Tuesday with "great excitement".

"We're happy to be running it in 2021, we're relieved, more importantly, the schools are relieved," she said.

"It's a good opportunity for school students to get involved in a hands-on challenge.

"Speaking as a former science teacher, I think it's a great opportunity as It's not like building LEGO where you are following instructions, the students get to try out different things, see what works and what doesn't. It's trial and error."

The initiative is entirely funded by Rotary Clubs of Dubbo and district and through local sponsors including Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, We Know Travel, Astley's Plumbing and Hardware EnviroScience, Alkane Resources Oz Ark, Dubbo Regional Council Rhino Promotions, Tracworx Barnson P/L and Maverick Biomaterials.

The challenge will be held from March 23 to March 26 at Dubbo Showground for all school students across the district.

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