Sunshine Coast Welcomes World’s Brightest Maths Minds
The Sunshine Coast has proudly welcomed the world’s brightest young mathematicians for the 66th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), a prestigious global competition that has brought together 635 students from 114 countries from 10–20 July at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort.
The IMO 2025 marks the largest and most international edition of the event since its inception in 1959.
Organised by the Australian Maths Trust (AMT) and supported by XTX Markets, the Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources, and Sunshine Coast Council, the Olympiad showcases not only mathematical brilliance but also the region’s capacity to host international events.
A global gathering of young problem solvers
The competition officially commenced with an opening ceremony on July 14, followed by two intense days of exams on July 15 and 16, where students tackled six complex problems over nine hours. These young minds, aged between 14 and 18, represent the future of mathematics, with many destined for top universities and careers in science, technology, and finance.
Australia’s team featured six students from New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. In a friendly pre-competition tradition dubbed “the ashes of IMO,” Australia narrowly lost to Great Britain by a single mark, an early highlight that set the tone for the spirited competition ahead.
More than just maths
IMO 2025 is more than a contest, it is a celebration of culture, sustainability, and connection. Participants stayed across six hotels, shared over 35,000 meals (with one-third vegetarian), and participated in excursions to Australia Zoo and Aussie World, and further across the Sunshine Coast, exploring its beaches, mountains, and biosphere.
In a powerful gesture of environmental responsibility, 61,200 trees were planted to offset the event’s carbon footprint, reinforcing the region’s commitment to sustainability. Over1,200 of those trees were planted on the Sunshine Coast.
The event also saw the launch of the AMT Alumni Network, designed to connect past and present Olympians and foster ongoing engagement with mathematics education.
Honouring legends and inspiring futures
One of the most anticipated moments was the return of Terence Tao, the youngest-ever IMO gold medallist, who won at age 12 during Australia’s first time hosting the event in 1988. Now recognised as one of the world’s leading mathematicians, Tao delivered a guest lecture alongside fellow Australian maths icons Cheryl Praeger, Eddie Woo, and Burkard Polster.
Adding a touch of local charm, the event mascot—a kangaroo named Algebaroo—was created by Year 10 student Malia P through a regional school competition, symbolising the fusion of Australian identity and mathematical spirit.
A win for the Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she was thrilled to welcome the International Mathematical Olympiad 2025 to the Sunshine Coast, saying it was the most global IMO yet, attracting 635 of the world’s brightest young minds from 114 countries.
"It’s incredible to see how this journey unfolds, all the excitement as students tackled some intense days of mathematical problem-solving,” Mayor Natoli said.
"Beyond the competition, this is a chance for young people to connect and explore our beautiful Biosphere - from our beaches to our mountains.
"With 61,200 trees being planted to offset the event’s carbon footprint, IMO 2025 reflects not just brilliance in maths, but a shared commitment to sustainability and global friendship."
IMO 2025 not only elevated the Sunshine Coast on the world stage but also inspired a new generation of problem solvers. The event will conclude with an award ceremony on July 19, a legacy of collaboration, curiosity, and hopes of global friendship to remain.