Questacon and Scitech aim to inspire the next generation of STEM students with pop-up science centre in Eaton

Families enjoyed a thrilling day out at the Questacon Pop-Up Science Centre event in Eaton at the weekend, where kids got hands on with interactive science exhibits and shows. The pop-up event at the recreation centre — which was presented in partnership with Scitech — rounded out Questacon’s tour in Bunbury over the past fortnight, with science shows in local primary schools which aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists. Fun activities were on offer at the pop-up event. Kids could use cars and ramps to measure G-force, learn how to program robots with coloured pens and build earthquake-proof towers. Families also watched on intently as presenters ran hourly demonstrations which included the creation of fireballs as well as liquid nitrogen clouds and bubbles. The Questacon Science Circus is an initiative of Questacon — the National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra — and has been on the road for the past 40 years, with the goal of inspiring young Australians to engage with STEM. Questacon Science Circus team leader Catherine Nielsen said they were “committed to making science accessible and enjoyable for everyone”. “By providing opportunities for exploration and discovery, the Questacon Science Circus aims to foster engagement with STEM in the world around us,” she said. “Science and technology play a huge part in our daily lives and the Pop-Up Science Centre offers the whole community an opportunity to get hands-on and explore science for themselves.” Scitech programs co-ordinator Evan Thyer said the event was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with Questacon and bring fun interactive Stem experiences to the Bunbury community. “Scitech is passionate about creating opportunities for all Western Australians to play, learn and find their love of science, and we are committed to bringing our shows and experiences to communities across the State,” he said.