Sapphire Coast science enthusiasts are licking their lips in anticipation of National Science Week, with a bumper calendar of events slated for the region.
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The newly formed Sapphire Coast Science Hub has planned a variety of science and technology activities over the week, from August 16-24, aimed at engaging members from all parts of the community.
Australian National University experts will visit Bega Library in the lead-up, to hold a talk on climate, fire and water issues on Wednesday, August 13.
The week will then be officially launched at the Bournda Environmental Education Centre from 1pm on Saturday, August 16, with 12 fascinating hands-on activities on offer.
These include identifying different plant and animal species along the Bournda ClimateWatch trail, exploring the biodiversity of estuarine ecosystems and being part of a night-time search for the elusive Yellow-Bellied Glider.
Attention then shifts to the Jigamy Aboriginal Keeping Place on Tuesday, August 19, for presentations on Aboriginal science focussed on the Bundian Way and a presentation on Aboriginal astronomy by Dr Duane Hamacher from the University of New South Wales, in the late afternoon and early evening.
Thursday, August 21, shapes up as a highlight, beginning with walks and talks at the Panboola Wetlands in the morning.
That will be followed by a science café at Oaklands Pambula from 4.30pm, giving visitors the opportunity to taste local delacacies, including oysters and cheese, while learning about the science behind them.
Jillian Riethmuller from the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre, a hub partner, said this is the stand-out event in her eyes
“We have put together a lot of wonderful events for the community and we hope lots of people join in,” she said.
“I’m particularly looking forward to the Science Café though; there’ll be some great talks on the science of food production by local industry leaders and then I’ll get to taste some of it!
“But this is just one of the events on offer, so it will be a great week to learn a bit more about science.”
The penultimate event is sure to be a brain strain, with the ‘Food for Thought’ trivia night to be held at Twyford Hall, Merimbula on Friday, August 22, from 6.30pm.
It all wraps up with an open day at the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre on Saturday, August 23, from 10am.
Much like the launch, a range of hands-on activities and displays will be available, with the highlight being the chance to explore local rock pools as part of an international ClimateWatch survey.
Like the Sapphire Coast Regional Science Hub on Facebook to be kept in the loop as details are finalised and event bookings open.
