Last updated October 25, 2018 at 1:24 pm
Our daily guide for National Science Week in South Australia.
The best week of the year for science-lovers is on again! National Science Week is back bigger than ever before with thousands of events around the country.
But no need to worry – we’ve got your National Science Week all planned out with some of our highlights around South Australia.
National Science Week officially runs from 11 – 19 August.
Saturday 11 August
Discover Robotics
Have you ever danced with a robot? Or maybe you would like to watch a robot solve a Rubiks Cube? Join us in the Innovation Lab to discover what our robots can do, and learn how to program them yourself!
Where: Adelaide City Library, Level 3 Rundle Place
When: 2:15 PM to 3:15 PM
Tickets: free, bookings essential, bit.ly/2KpaxRv
More information: scienceweek.net.au/discover-robotics
Sunday 12 August
Cummins Science of the Small
Come and listen to Professor Geraint Rogers (Gut Microbiome), Dr Ash Martin (Soil Microbiome) and Mark and Janie Butterworth (Beer Microbiome) give an entertaining glimpse into the Science of the Small. Bring the whole family with a Lab Rats Club to entertain the kids.
Where: Cummins Hall, 46 Railway Terrace, Cummins
When: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Tickets: $5, eventbrite.com.au/e/cummins-science-of-the-small-tickets-47421085744
More information: scienceweek.net.au/cummins-science-of-the-small
Monday 13 August
Big Data and Shrinking Democracies
Join publisher of CityMag, Josh Fanning as he takes you ‘behind the paywall’ and walks you through the basics of the media’s business model and how – despite all the trouble its caused – data and the Internet can strengthen the democratic process.
Where: Centre of Democracy, Institute Building, State Library of South Australia
When: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Tickets: free, eventbrite.com.au/e/big-data-and-shrinking-democracies-tickets-47836910487
More information: scienceweek.net.au/big-data-and-shrinking-democracies
Tuesday 14 August
Sprigg lecture series: Professor Bronwyn Gillanders – Giant Australian cuttlefish in South Australian waters
What do we really know about the Giant Australian Cuttlefish? Professor Bronwyn Gillanders will present some of the scientific detective work that she and her team have done to unravel the mystery of their decline and rapid recovery.
Where: South Australian Museum
When: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Tickets: free, bookings essential, eventbrite.com.au/e/sprigg-lecture-series-prof-bronwyn-gillanders-giant-australian-cuttlefish-tickets-47491585611
More information: scienceweek.net.au/sprigg-lecture-series-professor-bronwyn-gillanders-giant-australian-cuttlefish-in-south-australian-waters
Wednesday 15 August
Grape Expectations! The Future of Wine
Wine, as you see it today, isn’t the same drink it was 200 years ago – It’s better! Find out how scientific breakthroughs have increased wine’s longevity and made it more delicious than ever! Activities, story-telling and wine! …all to feed your mind and palate.
Where: Gilbert Suite, Adelaide Convention Centre
When: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Tickets: $25 per person, includes welcome drink and light refreshments, awri.com.au/events/grape-expectations-the-future-of-wine-2
More information: scienceweek.net.au/grape-expectations-the-future-of-wine
Thursday 16 August
What IS it about whales? (large & small)
“What IS it about whales?” highlights whales in our region and Science’s role in conservation and protection. Celebrating Science in our community, amidst one of the most vitally important whale sanctuaries in the world. Citizen Scientists, scientists and whales – a magical mix!
Then, at 7pm “Wise Whale Words, Wine & Cheese” (WWWW & C) is a “Meet the Whale Scientists” special “Science in the Pub” type celebration with delightful organic and biodynamic Gemtree wines and local cheeses available for purchase. (For adults only).
Where: South Australian Whale Centre, Railway Terrace, Victor Harbor
When: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and 7:00 PM
Tickets: SA Whale Centre – entry fees apply, Dolphin Watch surveys – $20 per head, Public talks – no charge, 08 8551 0750
More information: scienceweek.net.au/what-is-it-about-whales-large-small
Friday 17 August
Marine Science in the Brewery – Beers and Oyster Reefs
Marine Science in the Brewery – Beers and Oyster Reefs is 4.30pm, Friday 17 August at the Watsacowie Brewing Company, Minlaton. Enjoy an oyster tasting whilst learning about the Windara Reef, oyster aquaculture and cultural sea country. Free for all ages.
Where: Watsacowie Brewery, 9 Depot Road, Minlaton
When: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Tickets: free, bookings essential, 88320000 or
More information: scienceweek.net.au/marine-science-in-the-brewery-beers-and-oyster-reefs
Saturday 18 August
Autism-friendly Family Morning at the South Australian Museum
Designed specifically for children with autism and their families, we’ll host a unique morning experience. Before we open to the public, you’ll have a chance to explore all the galleries and the Discovery Centre.
Where: South Australian Museum
When: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Tickets: free, bookings essential, eventbrite.com.au/e/autism-friendly-family-morning-national-science-week-tickets-47577912818
More information: scienceweek.net.au/autism-friendly-family-morning-national-science-week
Sunday 19 August
Professor Flint’s Shadows of the Prehistoric Past – Naracoorte
The prehistoric story of where you are is part of the story of who you are. Join world famous singing palaeontologist Prof Flint on a delightful family friendly adventure to discover the critters that once walked and swam in the place that is Naracoorte.
Where: Naracoorte Caves, 89 Wonambi Road, Naracoorte
When: 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Tickets: free, heapsgood.com.au/HeapsGood/Dinsoaurs_Down_Under_Science_Week.html
More information: scienceweek.net.au/professor-flints-shadows-of-the-prehistoric-past-naracoorte
