10 ways to embrace your scientific curiosity this National Science Week
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Dust off your thinking caps and push past the boundaries of what you know—National Science Week in 2023 is all about innovation, the advancement of technology, and ‘Powering Future Industries’.
Who doesn’t love a good science experiment? Maybe you’ve dabbled in creating elephant toothpaste, Oobleck slime, or your own sherbet. Maybe you enjoy learning how things tick, or why the sky is blue.
Embrace it all this National Science Week, running from Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 August. With something for everyone (even the creatives!), allow your mind to expand like the universe and ponder the future of our industries. How will you science this Science Week?
Advancing the Future: Gender Equity in STEM
Society and the planet need as many talented people as possible to solve problems with science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM)—and yet, the industry is currently less diverse and inclusive than it should be. Join in a conversation and workshop with leading women in STEM to discuss the future of gender equality in STEM at this free event. After all, this National Science Week is all about powering future industries—and that requires the talents of everyone.
Tuesday 15 August, 10 am – 12 pm | 5/1 Moore Street, Canberra | More info here.
No-Knit Neurons Installation
Science doesn’t have to be strenuous—and with this activity, you can stretch your fingers and your mind! At the National Portrait Gallery, visit the No-Knit Neurons Installation to take part in a community art project to crochet, wrap, knit or knot your way to a healthier brain. Open to everyone of all ages and abilities, enjoy the creative ways that your life can incorporate science.
Tuesday 7 to Thursday 31 August, 10 am – 4.30 pm | National Portrait Gallery | More info here.
Libraries ACT
Our local libraries are hosting so many free activities for this National Science Week that Canberrans are truly spoilt for choice! There is various story times throughout the week, as well as the opportunity for kids to be introduced to all kinds of scientific concepts. And really, who can resist the chance to play with Cornflour Slime?
Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 August | Various Libraries ACT branches | More info here.
Science in the Centres
Already planning a shopping trip for the weekend? Five of Canberra’s shopping centres will be offering fun, hands-on science activities across both weekends of National Science Week. Go back in time with the Dinosaur Museum at the Canberra Centre or learn about Geology with Geoscience Australia at Westfield Woden—science doesn’t have to be boring!
12 to 13 August and 19 to 20 August, 10 am – 4 pm | Canberra Centre, Cooleman Court, Southpoint Tuggeranong, Westfield Belconnen, Westfield Woden | More info here.
Questacon
As Canberra’s home of science, of course Questacon is putting on a show this National Science Week! Alongside their regular exhibitions and activities, Questacon will also be holding several webinars and workshops, as well as two takeovers—one by the Australian Federal Police on Saturday 12 August, and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water on Saturday 19 August. Who’s up for a virtual reality tour of the Great Barrier Reef?
Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 August | Questacon | More info here.
The Science of Coins
Have you ever wondered about the process the loose change in your wallet went through to get in there? Peek behind the coin-making curtain at the Royal Australian Mint, where they’re offering free daily tours that answer just that. It’s the perfect way to answer questions about coins that you never knew you had!
Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 August, 2 – 2.30 pm | Royal Australian Mint | More info here.
Unconformity Geology Tours at Australian Parliament House
What is National Science Week without the opportunity to explore a scientific marvel? Deep underneath the Australian Parliament House lies an ancient rock formation, available to curious minds for one weekend only. Joined by an expert geologist from Geoscience Australia, tours to explore the phenomenon run for one hour, and cost $76 per person, or $56 for concession holders.
Friday 11 to Saturday 12 August | Parliament house | More info here.
Tasting Australia with Adam Shipp
Looking for something out in the natural Canberra beauty? Enjoy an educational and fascinating walk through the National Museum’s Christina and Trevor Kennedy Garden with Adam Shipp—a Canberra-based Wiradjuri man. As you explore the gardens’ First Nations food and medicine plants from across the country, learn first-hand their uses and significance from Adam Shipp. The tour starts at $25 for adults and $20 for concession.
Friday 11 to Saturday 12 August | National Museum of Australia | More info here.
Hollywood Ballistics: Science or Fiction?
You cannot tell me you’ve never watched a television show or a movie and thought to yourself ‘really?’ As an avid consumer of Criminal Minds, sometimes you have to pause your episode and just wonder. Well, ponder no more—the Australian Federal Police forensic ballisticians will be busting the myths about Hollywood gun fights at their National Science Week event, Hollywood Ballistics: Science or Fiction.
Monday 14 August, 6 – 8 pm | 69 Canberra Avenue, Kingston | More info here.
Creative Computing for Seniors Workshop (using Scratch)
If you’re over 55 and inspired by creativity (and can use a computer keyboard and mouse) then this free workshop is for you. This event will teach you how to get started with Scratch, a system that is both easy-to-use and free, and a fantastic way to be creative and keep your mind stimulated. Online registration for this is a must—so get in quick!
12 to 13 August and 19 to 20 August, 10 am – 1 pm | ANU Computer Science & Information Technology (CSIT) Building, 108 North Road, Acton | More info here.
