Art, mushroom farming, and sex on the beach: five unexpected events this Science Week
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In preparation for National Science Week’s kick-off on Saturday 13 August, we’ve brought together a list of five (unexpected) events that we’re looking forward to checking out.
If you haven’t been to a Science Week event before, you might be thinking of beakers, equations and balloons exploding—and while there will be a bit of that going on, this year you’ll also discover quite a few ‘oh wow, I didn’t know that!’ moments.
From artistic experimentation, to mushroom farming and sex on the beach (yes really) here’s where we’ll be this National Science Week!
Sex on the beach
We had to start with this one! Described as a combination of a David Attenborough documentary, a Barry White song, and a bucket of slime, this show is a returning favourite.
Hosted at Smith’s Alternative, you’ll find yourself cheering on a flatworm penis-fencing competition and learning about the connection between snogging and shark sex. We can attest that you’ll pick up a few interesting anecdotes to share at your next dinner party (although you might never look at Finding Nemo the same way again).
Science in the Centres
Ever wanted to learn about mushroom farming or engineering with Lego? No matter where you are in Canberra, this National Science Week you’ll find Science in the Centres at your local shopping centre! Look out for scientists popping up at Westfield Belconnen, Westfield Woden, South.Point Tuggeranong, Cooleman Court, and the Canberra Centre.
Each day the team will introduce a scientist, give visitors some hands-on experience in their field, share some ideas of where to visit to explore more, and they’ll even send you home with a book of science activities to do at home. You could be playing with a robot, exploring the rockstars of the rock world, or learning how microscopic spores grow into beautiful fungi.
Greenlight for Girls
Have a budding scientist or future mathematician? Hundreds of girls across the ACT take part in Greenlight for Girls every year, and 2022 is shaping up to be one of the best! Open to girls aged 10-17, the event pairs up small groups of budding scientists with professional working in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
This free event includes four 45-minute workshops for each participant, and they’ll even provide a healthy lunch. Registration close on DATE, so be sure to book a spot by heading to their ticketing page.
Canberra Women of Science and Art
What do drones, balloons, ships and mini 3D-printed robots have in common? They’re all part of the Canberra Women of Science and Art events for National Science Week.
Featuring artistic scientists (a rather potent mix) these three events (held on Wednesday 17 August, Friday 19 August, and Sunday 21 August) will feature speakers who have chalked up some impressive achievements that include sparking the start of a Canberra tribe of art-robots; teaching hundreds of children how to fly drones; and creating a balloon show to explain the complexity of genetics to children. These interesting people are anything but ‘boring scientists’ or ‘wacky artists’.
Walks and Talks
Last but certainly not least, PhD candidate Ying Luo from the CSIRO will be hosting a series of strolls through the beautiful Australian National Botanic Gardens for a show and tell with a difference.
She will lead locals on the hunt for sightings of native insects, amazing reptiles, stunning orchids, beautiful birds, and elusive beetles, sharing her insights and expertise along the way. It’s sure to be f-ant-astic (sorry).
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If inspiration, fun and a few new facts sound like a good time to you, be sure to explore the hundreds of in-person and online events over National Science Week between Saturday 13 August and Saturday 21 August!
Just plug in your postcode and you’ll find everything you need to know on their website.
Feature image supplied by Innovate Communicate, created by artist Jessica Riese.
