The Shell Questacon Science Circus has celebrated 30 years of touring science experiences to regional communities across Australia, with a series of events throughout 2015 to mark the occasion.
Set-up in 1985, the Shell Questacon Science Circus–which is supported by Questacon’s Major Partner Shell and the Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) at the Australian National University (ANU)–has reached more than 2.2 million Australians and visited over 500 regional towns and 90 remote Indigenous communities, with its brightly coloured semi-trailer driving hundreds of thousands of kilometres around the country.
“In 30 years, the Science Circus has covered the length and breadth of Australia, making science more accessible for all, and providing an opportunity for families to explore and enjoy science together,” Professor Graham Durant AM, Director of Questacon said.
At the core of the Science Circus is a drive to inspire young people to value and engage in science, technology, engineering and maths. The programme is delivered by a team of 15 enthusiastic science graduates who are studying a Masters of Science Communication Outreach at the ANU.
“The success of the Science Circus is underpinned by this remarkable, 30-year partnership that exemplifies what can be achieved through a shared long-term commitment to science education by government, academia and industry,” Professor Durant said.
To celebrate the success of the Science Circus Questacon recently held two events, a gala dinner and a celebration day.
The gala dinner was held on Thursday 19 November 2015 at the National Arboretum and brought 170 Science Circus graduates together to celebrate the 30th anniversary.
The gala dinner was followed by the celebration day on Friday 20 November 2015, with free entry to Questacon for all visitors on the day. Special events included:
- demonstration-based, interactive science shows performed by past Science Circus presenters, including 'Surfing Scientist' and ABC TV presenter Ruben Meerman
- portable Science Circus exhibits throughout Questacon’s foyer
- water rocket launching and other hands-on activities and demonstrations on Questacon's rear science court, and
- the Science Circus truck was parked out the front of the Questacon building all day.
More information about the Shell Questacon Science Circus is available on Questacon’s website.
