The Parkes Library and Cultural Centre is inviting the community to celebrate National Science Week with The Big Think - a week-long program of hands-on workshops, interactive experiences and inspiring presentations designed to spark curiosity and ignite imaginations of all ages.
Running from 15 to 23 August, The Big Think will bring together science, creativity and innovation through a diverse program of activities encouraging participants to explore big ideas, experiment with new technologies and discover the wonders of science in everyday life.
Parkes Shire Council's Cultural, Education and Library Services Manager, Kerryn Jones, said the program celebrates the importance of science, creativity and lifelong learning.
"The Big Think is about inspiring curiosity and showing that science is for everyone," Ms Jones said.
"Whether you're interested in space, engineering, technology or simply trying something new, there's something in the program for all ages to enjoy. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover what's possible through creativity, innovation and hands-on learning."
Mayor of Parkes Shire Neil Westcott said Council was proud to support National Science Week by providing opportunities for the community to learn, create and connect.
"Programs like The Big Think encourage people of all ages to explore new ideas, develop new skills and discover exciting career pathways in science, technology and innovation," Mayor Westcott said.
"As a community with a rich scientific heritage, we're proud to celebrate National Science Week and provide opportunities that inspire curiosity and lifelong learning."
The celebrations begin with Youth Lock In #3, a special pre-Science Week event in the Marramarra Makerspace. Students in Years 7 to 12 will enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Makerspace, where they'll have the opportunity to experiment, create and collaborate using robotics, 3D printers, laser cutters and other innovative technologies, with pizza included.
The event aims to build confidence with emerging technologies while providing young people with a fun and engaging way to kick off National Science Week.
Program highlights also include:
- Construct and Conquer: The Great STEAM Challenge - Students in Years 5 to 10 will put their creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in an exciting engineering and design challenge.
- Makerspace in Motion - An after-hours showcase featuring live demonstrations of the Marramarra Makerspace, with opportunities to explore equipment, tools and creative technologies in action.
- Science Talk with John Sarkissian - Join John Sarkissian, Operations Scientist at the Parkes Radio Observatory, for an engaging presentation titled Challenging Concepts: How well do we know what we think we know?
National Science Week is Australia's annual celebration of science and technology, encouraging people of all ages to explore the important role science plays in everyday life.
The Parkes Library and Cultural Centre is proud to contribute to this national celebration by delivering a program that encourages curiosity, creativity and discovery across the community.
Most activities are free. The Youth Lock In incurs a small fee, and bookings are essential for all events as places are limited. To view the full program and book your place, visit: https://collections.humanitix.com/the-big-think-national-science-week
The Big Think is an Inspiring Australia initiative supported by the Australian Government as part of National Science Week.
