Minister for Tourism, Regional Development and Industry
The Honourable Desley Boyle

Friday, May 02, 2008

Adventure for kids to blast into the world of science

Queensland kids are invited to explore the world of science with the State Government’s popular Science on Saturday program which kicks off in six new locations this month.

Seven to 14-year-olds across Queensland have an opportunity to participate in an innovative range of hands-on science programs delivered on behalf of the Queensland Government by CSIRO Education.

Minister for Regional Development and Industry Desley Boyle said the term two Science on Saturday series would start on 10 May with weekly 90-minute sessions in each location for the next six weeks.

“Science is great for kids, it helps them learn about the world, and develop self-confidence. Their interest should be supported and encouraged,” Ms Boyle said.

“Science on Saturday gives young Queenslanders the opportunity to explore and get excited by showing them the relevance of science in everyday life.

“Activities include playing with glow-in-the-dark lotion, solving crimes by matching fingerprints, analysing handwriting and blood typing, exploring genetics by extracting DNA from bananas and learning about the flow of energy through an electrical circuit.”

Ms Boyle said each Science on Saturday session covered a different topic. This year’s topics are: Apprentice Scientist; Healthy Humans; Water Wise; Forensic Investigation; Working with DNA; and Energy Expert.

Parents can sign their children up for the full program, which is run by the CSIRO, or any individual sessions that interests them.

“The beauty about the program is that the fun doesn’t stop after it’s finished. The kids can continue to experiment and discover, using things found around the home,” Ms Boyle said.

“The aim is to inspire the next generation with the fun of learning how things work, exploring the world around them and making extraordinary discoveries.

“We hope some of these children may go on to pursue a career in science and further cement Queensland’s reputation as the Smart State.”

Last year more than 4,000 young Queenslanders took part in Science on Saturday while over 17,000 have participated since it began in 2004.

Children under 10 must be accompanied by a parent and Ms Boyle said parents of the senior group are also encouraged to attend as they too will find it enjoyable.



Term two locations for the program starting on 10 May are:

• Ingham - Ingham State High School, Menzies St, Ingham.
• Cairns - St Augustine's College, Draper St
• Redlands - Wellington Point State High School, Badgen Rd, Wellington Point
• Roma – St John's School, 61 Bowen St
• Rockhampton - Rockhampton State High School, Campbell St
• Warwick - Warwick State High School, Palmerin Street.

BOOKINGS AND WEBSITE

Places cost $6 per session prepaid or $9 on the day. Numbers are limited and bookings are essential. For more information or bookings, visit www.csiro.au/sos or call 1300 302 649.

The Science on Saturday program will visit six new towns each term. Check the website to find your nearest location.

2 May 2008

Media contact
Minister Boyle: 3224 2007 or 3225 1005
Adam Gromadski, Brisbane CSIRO Science Education Centre: 0401 795 499
Susan Weir, Brisbane CSIRO Science Education Centre: (07) 3214 2869

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