WILD WONDERS
World Science Festival Queensland 2026 brings you mind-blowing wonders that are, in a word, wild!
This kaleidoscopic celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths takes students on a journey through wildly different ecosystems, astonishing technologies and groundbreaking engineering feats. Discover surprising (and sometimes smelly and slimy) wonders of the natural world, explore the thrilling role of tech in extreme environments, and meet the extraordinary people doing wild things with science and innovation.
Designed to be highly interactive and self-guided, students can engage with STEM experts and learn firsthand about their fascinating research and careers.
The fun, free-roaming format supports rich, inquiry-based learning. Students drive their own investigations and make real-world connections to STEM concepts.
For educators, a selection of downloadable curriculum-linked Queensland Museum learning resources will help you extend learning before, during and after your visit.
Your session will start with a a 20-minute show by Street Science, followed by 70 minutes of engaging STEM activities
INDOOR MUSEUM EXHIBITS WILL NOT BE OPEN: During your visit, exhibits in the main building of Queensland Museum Rail Workshops will not be available due to roof damage. World Science Festival Queensland, including an exciting show by Street Science and numerous STEM activations, will be hosted in the Moving Goods Annex and surrounding outdoor spaces. Hats and sunscreen are recommended. Read more about the museum’s temporary closure.
World Science Festival Queensland is the state’s premier STEM festival, presented by
Queensland Museum — bringing inspiring experiences to communities across regional Queensland.
Please read the below important information before you register.
Entry
Entry is free, registration is essential.
Session duration is 90 minutes.
PLEASE NOTE: This event is for schools and home educators. The whole community is invited to attend the all ages event Robots and Rocketry, 21 and 22 March at Queensland Museum Rail Workshops.
Where
Queensland Museum Rail Workshops
North Street, North Ipswich
Indoor exhibits at the museum will not be open. Read more about the museum’s temporary closure.
There is a bus loading zone located near the museum entrance. Bus parking is available on North Street.
Age Recommendation
Activities are aimed for students in Prep to Year 12. Select activities may provide enriching opportunities for preschool-aged children. A student is deemed to be a participant is they require a seat for the show and/or they will be participating in activities in some capacity.
Home educators/parents are welcome to bring non-participating children (toddlers, infants). Please only register participating children.
Info for Schools
• EVENT FORMAT: This event is designed to be highly interactive and self-guided. We recommend tasking students with one or two activities from our free workbook to encourage them to engage with STEM experts, ask questions and to make the most out of this fun, free-roaming format.
• BAGS: There is strictly no bag storage available at the venue. Please keep school bags at school or on the bus. School bags are not permitted during sessions however students may carry a compact tote bag for food, water and stationery.
• HATS AND SUNSCREEN RECOMMENDED As this event is outdoors it is recommended that students wear hats and sunscreen. If needed, hat storage can be accommodated if schools supply their own container/tub.
• WHEN TO ARRIVE: Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your session to sign in and start activities promptly on time.
• CHECK-IN: Proceed directly to the check-in area on arrival.
• PHOTO/VIDEO PERMISSION: Attending educators are responsible on the day for identifying students who do not have consent to be photographed. At check-in, these students will be given a sticker to signal to photographers. Schools may use their own photo permission process or the provided World Science Festival Queensland photo permission slip. Photos and videos will be used by World Science Festival Queensland and Queensland Museum for marketing purposes.
• BREAKS: Please ensure that students are adequately supervised during breaks. Break spaces are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Food and drinks will be available for sale at the venue.
• FIRST AID: Visiting groups should carry an appropriately stocked first aid kit and accompanying supervisors should hold current First Aid qualifications. A standard first-aid kit will be available at the event. Please inform staff of any first-aid or medical situations that arise.
• EDUCATOR STUDENT RATIO: We recommend 1:3 for prep, 1:5 for primary, 1:10 for Years 7–10 and 1:15 for Years 11 and 12.
• RISK ASSESSMENT GUIDE & INSURANCE CERTIFICATE: Download these important documents here
• FREE LEARNING RESOURCES: Download the WSFQ Learning Resources booklet, as well as a suite of wild learning resources here.
Accessibility
View Accessibility Information for Queensland Museum Rail Workshops
World Science Festival Queensland Student Day may be a noisy and stimulating environment for students with sensory needs. A Quiet Area is available, and noise cancelling headphones and sensory kits can be loaned from reception.
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