August 9, 2023

UOW Shoalhaven to showcase the excitement of science

Astronomy, reptiles and robotics among the many activities during community day at West Nowra campus

The University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Shoalhaven Campus will be transformed into a hub of science and discovery this Saturday (12 August) with the first Science Showcase. The free event has something for all ages and interests and will kick off celebrations for National Science Week at UOW.

UOW’s Science Space and Planetarium will present a Fire and Ice Show, with displays also featuring LEGO Robotics, a Dragon Training Mobile Zoo featuring crocodiles, snake, lizards, turtles and a lace monitor, and telescopes from Shoalhaven Astronomers.

There will be guided tours of the School of Nursing and the Graduate School of Medicine buildings. Waminda, the South Coast Women’s Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation, will hold an activity focused on Birthing on Country, with midwives and interactive mannequins to measure foetal heart rates.

Participants can also have their health monitored with interactive medicine displays including blood pressure measurement and ultrasound viewing of muscles.  There will also be the chance to see how dummy patients and simulations are used in medicine and nursing.

Associate Professor Theresa Larkin, from the Graduate School of Medicine, said she is thrilled that members of the Shoalhaven community will have the opportunity to experience the excitement of scientific discovery in the family friendly event. Associate Professor Larkin is the brainchild behind UOW’s National Science Week celebrations.

“This is the first time that this event has been held at UOW Shoalhaven and we are excited to be able to give the community a glimpse into the world of science and a chance to interact with scientists and science activities,” said Associate Professor Larkin, who last November was named a Superstar of STEM by Science & Technology Australia, which is funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources.

“Science should and can be accessible, and days like this, during National Science Week, allow us to show the community the incredible scientific work that is underway at the University of Wollongong. It helps us to communicate what can be complex subjects while also encouraging young minds to consider the possibilities of a future in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics [STEM].”

The Science Showcase at UOW Shoalhaven will run from 10am to 3pm and is open to all members of the public. UOW Shoalhaven is located on George Evans Road in West Nowra.  

For more information, visit: https://www.scienceweek.net.au/event/science-showcase-uow-open-day-at-wollongong-campus/west-nowra/