Activities spark an interest in science

USQ has proven that science is not just for professors in lab coats following a number of successful activities held at the University in conjunction with National Science Week.

As part of National Science Week, which was held between Sunday August 19 and Thursday August 23, USQ hosted science-based events attracting a good cross-section of the community.

'We had school students, a good number of the public and staff and students from across the USQ community, so there was a broad range of people attend the events,' USQ National Science Week organiser Andrea Brosnan said.

'All of the activities were great and we were very encouraged by the response.'

These events included a magical science show held during the Toowoomba campus Open Day, where the community were able to take part in hands on activities and demonstrations.

'The magical science show was a major success with over 700 people coming through in spite of the rainy weather," Ms Brosnan said.

"There were three Young Scientists for Australia who came up from Brisbane to assist and show the public the fun and excitement of science.'

A number of guest speakers also shared their expertise and life experience during the week at a series of special presentations at the University.

'All three of the guest speakers who presented were excellent and they were al very different so it gave people a varied perspective on science.

'It was good to see that scientists can talk seriously about their work, but also can discuss their lives and how science has helped them.'

Although USQ has been involved in National Science Week in years past, the University decided to strengthen their involvement this year.

'For the first time that it has been run like this, the attendance was good,' Ms Brosnan said.

'I am hopeful that it will have a similar format next year, however we are looking at holding some events during school hours so that we can attract more high school students.'

This year marked the 10th Anniversary of National Science Week, with people across Australia getting involved and finding out more about science.

Media Contact: Josh Ada, +61 7 4631 1628