Look closer: Seeds of Curiosity brings National Science Week to Central Coast

Some of the most extraordinary discoveries begin with a simple moment of curiosity.

Beneath our feet, a whole world is moving. Around us, there is more happening than we realise. Above us, there is more than we could ever imagine.

This August, Hive’s Seeds of Curiosity program invites people of all ages to dig into the science shaping our world and our region.

Running from 8 to 26 August, the National Science Week program brings together hands-on workshops, inspiring talks, cultural walks, live performances, astronomy, family activities and special events at Hive and locations across Central Coast.

From slime moulds and soil biomes, to agriculture, innovation and the stars above, there is plenty to explore, no matter where your curiosity begins.

Beneath. Around. Above.

Look closer beneath and discover the remarkable organisms, patterns and living systems that often go unnoticed.

Create a new species from porcelain clay during Hybrid Worlds with Christie Lange, meet the artists inspired by microscopic life and hidden ecosystems at the Big Small Worlds Roundtable, or see Tasmanian slime moulds fill the planetarium dome during Sound in Space: Slime Moulds and Mountain Harp.

Look closer around and discover how science, culture and careful observation can change the way we understand familiar places.

Join local Aboriginal steward of Country Lyndon O’Neil for a Walk in the Dial or an Ulverstone Cultural Walk, exploring the connections between people, plants, animals and place. You can also get your hands into seeds, soil and growing at the Ulverstone Community Garden and The Lost Seed Workshop.

Look closer above and turn your attention to the night sky.

Start with coffee, scones and cosmic conversation at Astrocoffee with Dr Martin George, head outside for an evening of stargazing at Under Tasmanian Skies, or make a night of it at Expanding the Cosmos at Mount Gnomon Farm, bringing together astronomy, culture, local food, live music and telescopes beneath the dark skies of the Dial Range.

A big day for curious families

At the heart of the program is Family Science Day, returning to Hive on Saturday 15 August.

Across the day, families can meet Tasmanian scientists, explore interactive displays, try hands-on activities and experience a special program of planetarium shows. The crowd-favourite Derby Track will also return, ready for another day of designing, testing and racing.

And because curiosity does not have to stay inside a museum, science trivia will also take over The Pier and Penguin Beer Co.

To close the program on Wednesday 26 August, Meet the Young Tassie Scientists will give young people the chance to meet early-career researchers, hear about their work and ask plenty of questions.

Follow your curiosity

Whether you are a lifelong science lover, a curious beginner or simply looking for a different family day out, Seeds of Curiosity offers plenty of ways to explore, experiment and discover.

Most events are free, with a small number ticketed. Registration is required and places are limited.

Explore the full Seeds of Curiosity program, find the events that spark your interest and book your place today.

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