Reptiles, solar cars and more at Science Fest

Get up close to reptiles, build and race a solar car, climb aboard a garbage truck and heaps more for all ages at the free Hunter Science Festival this Sunday 19 August from 10am to 2pm at Newcastle Museum.
 
Capping off National Science Week in the Hunter region, this celebration of all things science offers a huge array of activities and displays to inform and entertain the whole family while showcasing career pathways.
 
"The Hunter Science Festival is a fantastic day out for kids and families hosted by Newcastle Museum," said Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes.
 
"The activities are fun, educational and inspiring, bringing out the natural love that kids have for science and learning. Interactive experiences teach young people not only what scientists do, but that they can be scientists themselves.

"Some of these young scientists will be the ones to take us forward into the future of high-tech, creative, knowledge-based industries, contributing to Newcastle's journey as a Smart City."
 
The Hunter Science Festival will offer a full day of activities, with a mix of learning and fun.
 
 
Activities on offer will include: 

• Meet and chat with inspiring local scientists, geologists and coders 
• Science shows from Museum Express and SMART (University of Newcastle)
• The incredibly popular NCC garbage truck - climb the ladder and look inside!
• Crocodile Encounters reptile show with a variety of animals
• Mini EV (electric vehicle) Festival to build and race solar-powered cars

"The theme for Science Week 2018 is Game Changers and Change Makers," said Newcastle Museum Director Julie Baird. "That's how we want kids and students to think of themselves. They'll experience a broad spectrum of science that opens them up to new ideas and innovation.
 
"Local scientists will share their work on topics including community and renewable energy, frog ecosystems, computer coding and geology, with beautiful fossils to handle from the Geological Survey of NSW. It's guaranteed everyone will learn something new - and maybe even astonishing."
 
The Festival is hosted by Hunter Innovation and Science Hub, a coalition of science educators, agencies and scientists of all passions and persuasions. Funding for the event is provided through Inspiring Australia, an Australian Government initiative.
 
What: Hunter Science Festival 2018
When: Sunday, 19 August 2018. 10am to 2pm
Where: Newcastle Museum
Cost: Free