Event Program: Townsville

World Science Festival Queensland’s education program for primary and secondary students is designed to engage students in stimulating and inspiring experiences that showcase careers in STEM, including discussions with scientists, hands-on activities and exciting science shows. Registrations have opened for the Townsville Schools Program. Register your interest in the school sessions using the button below. View the Schools Program HERE.

Thursday 1 August 4:15-4:45pm

AFCM Festival Garden Main Stage

Science communicator Dr Joel Gilmore performs a lively presentation combining music and science for all ages. From vibration science using live musical instrument demonstrations, to sounds in nature and space, to why our brains love music so much, enjoy this scientific musical journey that demonstrates physics is more entertaining outside the lab. Presented with World Science Festival Queensland.

Thursday 1 August 6pm – 7.30pm (includes Q&A)

Presented by World Science Festival Queensland, Queensland Chief Scientist and James Cook University

Our modern world is awash with information, but how much of it is reliable, trustworthy, and still engages us? Distinguished researchers unpack this question in a riveting panel discussion about the challenges of communicating science in an era of information overload.

The work of science has long been upheld as a beacon of truth, shedding light on our past, present and future. Today, however, the loudest voices are not always promoting solutions underpinned by good research. From climate change to public health, the rapid spread of information (and misinformation) through digital platforms is overwhelming, making effective science communication more important than ever before in navigating these challenges.

Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley will provide opening remarks on communicating science and combatting misinformation. Join our experts as they analyse the complexities of managing misinformation, offering insights into distinguishing science fact from science fiction for both academia and society. Also, hear how the scientific community explore and communicate groundbreaking research that can continue to inspire hope, resilience and action in the face of adversity.

Friday 2 August 10:30am-11:00am & 11:30am-12:00pm

Queensland Museum Tropics

There is NO experience like a Street Science Experience! Making real science seriously fun, don’t miss the Street Science team present high-energy science to inspire the next generation of scientists. The fun is contagious, and our team love to get everyone of all ages involved (even the parents)! A blend of humour, exciting demonstrations and age-appropriate scientific explanations to create an interactive science experience that can be enjoyed by all ages!

Free, Suitable for children under 5

Friday 1 August 9:30am-3:45pm

Free, drop in

Through an incredible visual presentation, the planetarium-style show shares traditional and scientific knowledge telling of Australia’s epic story within a large inflatable dome. Visitors will be transported to: Girraween Lagoon on Larrakia and Wulna Country outside Darwin in the NT; Cloggs Cave on GunaiKurnai Country in Victoria’s East Gippsland region; Lake Mungo in NSW on the land of the Barkandji/Paakantyi, Ngiyampaa and Mutthi Mutthi people; or Jiigurru (Lizard Island) on the Great Barrier Reef, which is sacred to many, including the Dingaal community.

The Earth Above: A Deep Time View of Australia’s Epic History is presented by the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), produced by the Deakin MotionLab in collaboration with First Nations communities and UOW Science Space.

Friday 2 August 2:00-4:00pm

Queensland Museum Tropics

Suitable for ages 12+

To celebrate The Percivals 2024 and the World Science Festival, Townsville City Galleries, Hands On Wildlife, and Queensland Museum Tropics have teamed up to deliver two exciting animal life drawing workshops! Get up close with some amazing creatures in this self-guided life drawing workshop. Bring along your own drawing materials* or choose from the selection of drawing materials available to use at the workshop!

Spaces are limited, bookings are essential

*Please refrain from bringing any messy materials such as ink and paint in order to protect Gallery & Museum spaces

Tropical paradise meets modern architecture and heritage icons in Townsville, the gateway to Queensland’s far north.