Media release – Young Tassie Scientists, 31 July 2024
Young Tassie Scientists embark on statewide science adventure
Next week, Young Tassie Scientists graduate student researchers will embark on a journey to entertain schools and public audiences with a variety of seafaring, space-aged, and even stinky science presentations.
The award-winning science outreach program has run continuously since 2002, providing enough time for primary-aged audiences to join YTS ranks as presenting scientists themselves.
YTS coordinator Rhiannon Terry said this year’s program features 38 volunteers who will visit more than 100 schools across Tasmania, including King and Flinders islands.
“YTS has a history of inspiring young Tasmanians to pursue a future in the sciences – it’s not unusual for us to hear from upcoming researchers who saw YTS as children,” Dr Terry said.
“We are proud of our program’s legacy and are pulling out all the stops to reach as many Tasmanians – young and old – as possible during this year’s National Science Week.”
With STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) graduates in Australia making up only 25 per cent of the entire graduate cohort, and declining participation in STEM subjects in Tasmanian schools, the YTS roadshow aims to inspire students to imagine a future in STEM.
University of Tasmania Acting Executive Dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering, Dr Angela Castles, highlighted its importance in inspiring the next generation.
“Seeing the excitement and wonder on the faces of young Tasmanians as they engage with our scientists is a powerful reminder of why the Young Tassie Scientists program is so important,” Dr Castles said.
“By providing hands-on experiences and real-world insights, we are not just teaching science—we are building a community of future scientists who will drive progress and change.”
For more information about the roadshow, and to find an event near you, visit youngtassiescientists.com.
Science at George Town Library (George Town)
When: Thursday, 8 August (3:30-4:30pm)
Where: George Town Library
HIVE Family Day (Ulverstone)
When: Saturday, 10 August (10:00am-4:00pm)
Where: HIVE, 50 Main Street, Ulverstone, TAS 7315
Beaker Street Festival (Hobart)
When: Saturday, 10 August, (7:00-9:00pm)
Where: Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart
Circular Head Science Big Gig (Smithton)
When: Monday, 12 August (4:30-8:00pm)
Where: Circular Head Community and Recreation Centre, 72-98 Nelson St, Smithton
Festival of Bright Ideas (Hobart)
When: Friday 16 – Saturday 17 August (9:00am-4:30pm)
Where: Princes Wharf 1, Hobart
YTS at Queenstown Library (Queenstown)
When: Monday, 19 August (3:30-4:30pm)
Where: Queenstown Library, 9-13 Driffield St, Queenstown
