Queensland science enthusiasts will be in their element with hundreds of events being held as part of ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Science Week starting today.
Minister for Science Leeanne Enoch said ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Science Week is about engaging everyone across Australia – students, scientists and families – to learn about the wonders of science and technology.
“This is the week to highlight all of the great science happening in Queensland and recognise how it is helping us to better understand the world around us,” Ms Enoch said.
“There are more than 200 events happening across Queensland this week, and include everything from learning about the causes of cancer in a world-first cancer-themed escape room, to becoming a citizen scientist for the day by helping to collect CoralWatch data at Orpheus Island off Townsville.
“In Maryborough, more than 2500 school students will take part in hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) educational activities including how to code their own apps and computer games, and how to build and fly micro-drones.”
Ms Enoch said the Queensland Museum Network would be celebrating ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Science Week across its facilities in Townsville, Toowoomba, Ipswich and Brisbane with pop up museums, roving scientists, space talks, a sleepover at the museum and science comedy debates in a mix of free and ticketed activities.
“NASA – A Human Adventure, the most comprehensive and extensive touring space flight exhibition in the world, is showing exclusively at Queensland Museum at South Bank at the moment,” Ms Enoch said.
“There are fantastic events happening right across the state, and I encourage all Queenslanders to get involved.
“We know jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) are the jobs of the future, with employment in this sector growing two times faster than other occupations.
“This is why events like ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Science Week are so important in helping people get engaged and enthusiastic about science and the career opportunities in this sector.”
Acting Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Paul Bertsch said ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Science Week provided an excellent opportunity for Queenslanders to reflect on the impact science has had on improving their lives and wellbeing, and to consider improving their STEAM skills.
“We are seeing the impact of science, innovative technologies and big data analytics on traditional industries like agriculture – from the use of drones and autonomous tractors to using satellites and remote-sensing technologies to provide our farmers with key information to support decisions around crop production and stock management.
“In Queensland, there will be a range of activities including the Brisbane Science Festival at Southbank from 16-18 August, a community event in Longreach and STEM workshops and lectures held in libraries on the Gold Coast, Dalby and Chinchilla, as well as our Regional STEM Pop-up in Maryborough,” Professor Bertsch said.
