First held in 1997, National Science Week has become one of Australia’s largest festivals. Last year — despite the pandemic — some 1.3 million people participated in more than 1750 events and activities.
This year it runs from Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 August, and in addition to online events, National Science Week is back with real in-the-flesh events for all ages, and across all of Australia. For example:
Newcastle, NSW – Step inside the Poo Palace
Is the perfect poo a number two? No, it’s a number three or four on the Bristol Stool Scale. The Poo Palace is a giant inflatable with tunnels and slides that re-creates the human digestive system. The journey starts with children entering a ‘giant mouth’. Next, they slide through a tunnel representing the oesophagus and into the stomach, where they can play in a ball pen that represents the stomach with enzymes and acids. Then they squeeze through a tunnel that represents the small intestine, leading to the large intestine, which is another tunnel where they can jump and walk along the ribbed floors and walls. Finally, at the end of the large intestine they squeeze out through the bum and press a button that represents a bowel movement.
Experts are on hand to answers questions about digestion, farts and faeces, gut health and good bacteria.
Sunday 21 August. Event details: www.scienceweek.net.au/event/hmris-poo-palace/newcastle
Wollongong, NSW – The future of the Antarctic envisaged by artists and scientists
What will the Antarctic look like in the future? Ask a team of artists and scientists who have been there for their research, and experience the interactive exhibition ‘Another Antarctica: Envisaging Antarctic Futures’. which presents Antarctic science, policy and different perspectives in a gallery space. It brings researchers and artists together to imagine potential futures for this important ecosystem. Guests will learn about Antarctic research with a series of interactive presentations and workshops within the gallery.
Date: Monday 15 August – Sunday 23 October. Event details: www.scienceweek.net.au/event/antarctic-futures/wollongong
Willetton, WA – Cleaning with Chemistry Workshop
Get to know your germs, and switch your thinking about cleaning. Science can help you keep a healthy home without toxic chemicals and plastic waste.
‘Cleaning with Chemistry’ will arm you with a basic understanding of household science and a spray bottle full of natural alternatives to toxic and expensive cleaners. This free workshop will cut through the advertising spin of the home hygiene industry with the help of elbow grease and bi-carb soda. Plus you will make your own citrus cleaner to take home.
Date: Thursday 11 August 10am. Event details: https://www.scienceweek.net.au/event/cleaning-with-chemistry-workshop/willetton/
With hundreds of events, you can search the National Science Week website by subject or to find events in your area. Start here: www.scienceweek.net.au.
