Thousands of NSW school students, families and visitors will explore the wonders of science as two of the nation's leading natural science institutions join forces. The Australian Museum and Botanic Gardens of Sydney will host the Sydney Science Trail from 9–17 August.
Part of National Science Week 2025, the Sydney Science Trail is one of the largest science festivals in Australia, hosting more than 40 schools across Greater Sydney for five days of dynamic excursions, which span the study of the natural world, the effects of climate change, and First Nations' environmental knowledge. The hands-on education program also includes dedicated events for diverse learners.
Australian Museum Director and CEO Kim McKay AO, said the Sydney Science Trail not only offers fun and free access to STEM activities, but also takes visitors behind the scenes to learn about the fascinating possibilities that science can uncover.
"Collaborating with Botanic Gardens of Sydney, this lively festival shows that science isn't confined to textbooks, it's everywhere, accessible, and full of exciting career possibilities. The planet is here to be explored and protected, and we have developed the Sydney Science Trail to help spark that interest and understanding," Ms McKay said.
Botanic Gardens of Sydney Chief Executive, Simon Duffy AM said he was excited to highlight the power of plants and hopefully inspire others to support their conservation. "Every day I am amazed by the breadth and depth of scientific research being undertaken across our sites, it makes me feel like anything is possible.
"Events like the Sydney Science Trail are about sharing this with the community, and by joining forces with the Australian Museum, we can give the public even greater access to opportunities and knowledge that might motivate them to think a little differently about the world," Mr Duffy said.
Beginning with a free community day at the Australian Museum on 9 August hosted by the Surfing Scientist, Ruben Meerman with a special science Q&A with Dr Karl, the Sydney Science Trail invites curious minds of all ages to think, talk and experience science. The Australian Museum and Botanic Gardens of Sydney will also host a free after-hours event mid-week, on 13 August, bringing together science enthusiasts to celebrate scientific innovation, forge new connections and expand their networks.
The adventure concludes on Saturday 16 August at Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, where families can experience groundbreaking botanic science and horticulture and to learn about how they can make a difference from home.
Sydney Science Trail highlights include: • Dr Karl answering the curliest science questions • Watch a T-rex Autopsy show and meet Winny the Muttaburrasaurus, a roving puppet dinosaur • Spectacular science demonstrations and Science Expo • Exclusive, behind the scenes tours of PlantBank, the National Herbarium of NSW • A chance to win a School Holiday Golden Ticket, providing a family pass to Botanic Gardens of Sydney School Holiday offerings • A Secret Species Challenge with an opportunity to take home special seeds to grow at home.
UTS and UNE are proud to be university partners for the Sydney Science Trail. Students can visit their stalls at the Science Expo (included in all bookings) and learn directly from the experts through our Science Talks panel discussions and workshops led by UTS and UNE.
