National Science Week 2025 across NSW offers a vibrant mix of hands-on activities, performances, workshops, and talks that bring science to life for all ages. In the Blue Mountains, Dr. Amelie Vanderstock combines ecology with music, movement, and art to explore the hidden language of native bees through interactive shows, family-friendly workshops, and engaging talks. In the Hawkesbury, young scientists can get hands-on with archaeology, create botanical art, explore mathematical patterns through tessellation and fractals, or dive into sustainability challenges at Western Sydney University’s Re-Gen Z Science program.
In Penrith program delights younger audiences with Beetle, a magical puppet and circus show, while curious adults can join community science talks at Science at the Local. In the Central West, ERTHWRX25 celebrates a decade of science, environment, and culture through live panels, exhibitions, and workshops, while Rock Hard! The Geological Cabaret spices things up with an adults-only science-meets-burlesque show.
With events unfolding in parks, libraries, museums, theatres, and outdoor spaces, National Science Week 2025 invites everyone to be curious, get hands-on, and celebrate the wonder of science.
Blue Mountains
Talking Science @ Scenic World!
Upper Blue Mountains Science Hub presents – Talking Science @ Scenic World! Hear from passionate researchers and conservationists, learn about their work and get hands-on seeing the technology that is used to monitor wildlife and study it up close.
Dive into fascinating discussions, engage with fellow science enthusiasts, and explore the wonders of the natural world. There will also be time to ask questions at the end.
10.30 – 11.30am on Saturday 9 August at Scenic World Katoomba
Dr. Amelie Vanderstock presents an engaging blend of ecology and musical theatre, exploring native bee communication, ultraviolet vision, and their ecological roles. The program includes interactive shows, talks, and hands-on workshops for all ages.
The Hidden Language of Plants and Pollinators Talk
This fascinating talk uncovering how plants and pollinators communicate through colour, scent, and ultraviolet signals. Discover the incredible diversity of Australia’s native bees, learn how to make your garden insect-friendly, and gain new insight into the vital role pollinators play in our ecosystems.
Perfect for curious minds of all ages!
5.30- 6.30pm on Thursday 14 August at Bates Hall, Blackheath
Join in with this playful, musical celebration of bees, pollination, and the magic of nature. Combining science, theatre, and hands-on fun, this interactive show invites families to sing, dance, and create insect art from fruit, veg, and origami.
Bring a picnic, relax on the lawn, and enjoy STEAM like you’ve never seen before – where everyone can BEE a scientist!
1 – 2pm on Saturday 16 August at Blackheath Presbyterian Church Hall
In this fun, hands-on workshop with Dr Amelie Vanderstock (Amelie Ecology), kids will explore how native bees see the world, communicate through dance, and help our environment. Through music, movement, art, and outdoor discovery, children will learn to spot pollinator-friendly plants and create their own bee-friendly spaces.
A playful, creative way to connect with nature and explore science—no lab coats required!
10 – 11am on Saturday 16 August at Bates Hall Blackheath
Young archaeologists can get hands-on with mini dig boxes, using brushes and tools to uncover hidden treasures and record their finds like real scientists. Drop in anytime—stay for 10 minutes or an hour! Recommended for children aged 3–8 and their adults. No booking required.
Slow down and discover the hidden details of leaves, flowers, and seeds in this hands-on family workshop. Using pencils and watercolours, participants will observe like scientists and create their own botanical artwork to take home.
Designed as a shared learning experience for children and adults together. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Shape Shifting – Art and the mathematics of tessellation
Explore the patterns of nature and art as students create their own tessellated masterpieces inspired by shapes like honeycombs and pineapples. This syllabus-linked workshop combines mathematics and visual arts, helping students apply two-dimensional geometry through creative self-expression.
Discover the beauty of fractals – repeating patterns found in snowflakes, trees, and even our lungs. In this syllabus-linked workshop, students will learn about the geometry of triangles and create their own artwork inspired by the Sierpinski Triangle, blending mathematics with creative expression.
Re-Gen Z Science is a week of interactive activities designed to inspire young changemakers through hands-on learning about sustainability. Explore water management, soil care, plant pollination, ecosystem restoration, and regenerative agriculture with expert-led sessions and demonstrations.
The program includes two days on a demonstration farm and sessions at Western Sydney University, with panels, discussions, and a design challenge focused on solving real-world challenges in the Hawkesbury, using cutting-edge tools like GIS and AI.
10:00am – 2:30pm on Monday 11 – Friday 15 August at Western Sydney University Richmond
Join Sally and her backyard friend on a magical journey to find the elusive Christmas Beetle in this immersive production featuring giant puppets, circus, and animations by children’s author Freya Blackwood. Along the way, meet bush insects and discover the delicate balance of nature in a heartwarming story about hope and the power of small voices.
Ideal for Kindergarten to Year 8, with an education pack available for school groups.
11:00am – 11:50am on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 August at Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
A community-driven initiative bringing science to public venues, making it accessible and entertaining. Events feature talks by scientists and experts, fostering engagement with scientific topics in a relaxed setting.
Join Barnaby Norris from the University of Sydney as he talks about his latest research in ‘Decoding the Universe: The Tech and Techniques Behind Planet Discovery’.
6:30pm-7:30pm on Wednesday 13 August at Penrith Library
Her Name is Nanny Nellie: public screening and Q and A
The Orange Cowra Cabonne Science Hub is proud to present a special community screening followed by Q and A of the acclaimed documentary Her Name Is Nanny Nellie, a powerful and deeply personal exploration of truth-telling, memory, and cultural reclamation in Australia’s public institutions.
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is more than a film—it is an act of cultural justice. The documentary confronts colonial representations and invites audiences to consider how history is preserved, presented, and remembered.
ERTHWRX25 – Celebrating science, environment, arts and culture
Celebrating a decade of programming, ERTHWRX25 will present a 10-year retrospective of science, arts and cultural initiatives that have explored regional environmental knowledge systems through both Indigenous and Western scientific perspectives.
Live panels, exhibitions, and workshops will feature leading experts and creatives in science, environment, and the arts, offering dynamic discussions and interactive experiences.
Strap in for a seismic night where the humour is volcanic, the moves are tectonic, and the cleavage is both geological and generous.
This ain’t your school science class – it’s cocktail hour geology with sultry songs, smouldering dance, sharp wit and a shimmer of burlesque. For grown-ups who like their science gneiss and naughty. No safety glasses required…but you might need a fan to cool off! Strictly 18+ audiences only.
6:00pm – 7:45pm on Saturday 9 August at the Establishment, Dubbo
National Science Week 2025 across NSW offers a vibrant mix of hands-on activities, performances, workshops, and talks that bring science to life for all ages. In the Blue Mountains, Dr. Amelie Vanderstock combines ecology with music, movement, and art to explore the hidden language of native bees through interactive shows, family-friendly workshops, and engaging talks. In the Hawkesbury, young scientists can get hands-on with archaeology, create botanical art, explore mathematical patterns through tessellation and fractals, or dive into sustainability challenges at Western Sydney University’s Re-Gen Z Science program.
In Penrith program delights younger audiences with Beetle, a magical puppet and circus show, while curious adults can join community science talks at Science at the Local. In the Central West, ERTHWRX25 celebrates a decade of science, environment, and culture through live panels, exhibitions, and workshops, while Rock Hard! The Geological Cabaret spices things up with an adults-only science-meets-burlesque show.
With events unfolding in parks, libraries, museums, theatres, and outdoor spaces, National Science Week 2025 invites everyone to be curious, get hands-on, and celebrate the wonder of science.
Blue Mountains
Talking Science @ Scenic World!
Upper Blue Mountains Science Hub presents – Talking Science @ Scenic World! Hear from passionate researchers and conservationists, learn about their work and get hands-on seeing the technology that is used to monitor wildlife and study it up close.
Dive into fascinating discussions, engage with fellow science enthusiasts, and explore the wonders of the natural world. There will also be time to ask questions at the end.
10.30 – 11.30am on Saturday 9 August at Scenic World Katoomba
Hidden Language of Native Bees: Blackheath
Dr. Amelie Vanderstock presents an engaging blend of ecology and musical theatre, exploring native bee communication, ultraviolet vision, and their ecological roles. The program includes interactive shows, talks, and hands-on workshops for all ages.
The Hidden Language of Plants and Pollinators Talk
This fascinating talk uncovering how plants and pollinators communicate through colour, scent, and ultraviolet signals. Discover the incredible diversity of Australia’s native bees, learn how to make your garden insect-friendly, and gain new insight into the vital role pollinators play in our ecosystems.
Perfect for curious minds of all ages!
5.30- 6.30pm on Thursday 14 August at Bates Hall, Blackheath
The Bee-rilliant Bee Musical
Join in with this playful, musical celebration of bees, pollination, and the magic of nature. Combining science, theatre, and hands-on fun, this interactive show invites families to sing, dance, and create insect art from fruit, veg, and origami.
Bring a picnic, relax on the lawn, and enjoy STEAM like you’ve never seen before – where everyone can BEE a scientist!
1 – 2pm on Saturday 16 August at Blackheath Presbyterian Church Hall
See like a bee in UV!
In this fun, hands-on workshop with Dr Amelie Vanderstock (Amelie Ecology), kids will explore how native bees see the world, communicate through dance, and help our environment. Through music, movement, art, and outdoor discovery, children will learn to spot pollinator-friendly plants and create their own bee-friendly spaces.
A playful, creative way to connect with nature and explore science—no lab coats required!
10 – 11am on Saturday 16 August at Bates Hall Blackheath
Hawkesbury
Hawkesbury Library Service
Decoding the Universe Display
Drop into Hawkesbury Central Library, Windsor and Richmond Branch Library and unlock the secrets of the universe! FREE – Drop In – All Welcome
9 – 17 August, during opening hours
Hawkesbury Regional Museum
Digging Up The Past
Young archaeologists can get hands-on with mini dig boxes, using brushes and tools to uncover hidden treasures and record their finds like real scientists. Drop in anytime—stay for 10 minutes or an hour! Recommended for children aged 3–8 and their adults. No booking required.
10am – 4pm on Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 August
Hawkesbury Regional Gallery
Sketching Science – The art of plants
Slow down and discover the hidden details of leaves, flowers, and seeds in this hands-on family workshop. Using pencils and watercolours, participants will observe like scientists and create their own botanical artwork to take home.
Designed as a shared learning experience for children and adults together. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
11:00am – 1:00pm on Sunday 10 August
Shape Shifting – Art and the mathematics of tessellation
Explore the patterns of nature and art as students create their own tessellated masterpieces inspired by shapes like honeycombs and pineapples. This syllabus-linked workshop combines mathematics and visual arts, helping students apply two-dimensional geometry through creative self-expression.
10:00am – 4:00pm on Monday 11 – Friday 15 August
The Shape of Infinity – Fractals and art
Discover the beauty of fractals – repeating patterns found in snowflakes, trees, and even our lungs. In this syllabus-linked workshop, students will learn about the geometry of triangles and create their own artwork inspired by the Sierpinski Triangle, blending mathematics with creative expression.
10:00am – 4:00pm on Monday 11 – Friday 15 August
Re-Gen Z Science – Western Sydney University
Re-Gen Z Science is a week of interactive activities designed to inspire young changemakers through hands-on learning about sustainability. Explore water management, soil care, plant pollination, ecosystem restoration, and regenerative agriculture with expert-led sessions and demonstrations.
The program includes two days on a demonstration farm and sessions at Western Sydney University, with panels, discussions, and a design challenge focused on solving real-world challenges in the Hawkesbury, using cutting-edge tools like GIS and AI.
10:00am – 2:30pm on Monday 11 – Friday 15 August at Western Sydney University Richmond
Penrith
Beetle by Legs On The Wall
Join Sally and her backyard friend on a magical journey to find the elusive Christmas Beetle in this immersive production featuring giant puppets, circus, and animations by children’s author Freya Blackwood. Along the way, meet bush insects and discover the delicate balance of nature in a heartwarming story about hope and the power of small voices.
Ideal for Kindergarten to Year 8, with an education pack available for school groups.
11:00am – 11:50am on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 August at Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre
Science at the Local
A community-driven initiative bringing science to public venues, making it accessible and entertaining. Events feature talks by scientists and experts, fostering engagement with scientific topics in a relaxed setting.
Join Barnaby Norris from the University of Sydney as he talks about his latest research in ‘Decoding the Universe: The Tech and Techniques Behind Planet Discovery’.
6:30pm-7:30pm on Wednesday 13 August at Penrith Library
Central West
Her Name is Nanny Nellie: public screening and Q and A
The Orange Cowra Cabonne Science Hub is proud to present a special community screening followed by Q and A of the acclaimed documentary Her Name Is Nanny Nellie, a powerful and deeply personal exploration of truth-telling, memory, and cultural reclamation in Australia’s public institutions.
Her Name Is Nanny Nellie is more than a film—it is an act of cultural justice. The documentary confronts colonial representations and invites audiences to consider how history is preserved, presented, and remembered.
5:45pm – 8:00pm on Friday 8 August at Club Corwa
ERTHWRX25 – Celebrating science, environment, arts and culture
Celebrating a decade of programming, ERTHWRX25 will present a 10-year retrospective of science, arts and cultural initiatives that have explored regional environmental knowledge systems through both Indigenous and Western scientific perspectives.
Live panels, exhibitions, and workshops will feature leading experts and creatives in science, environment, and the arts, offering dynamic discussions and interactive experiences.
10am – 4pm on Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 August
The Corridor Project Wyangala (Cowra area) NSW
Rock Hard! The Geological Cabaret
Strap in for a seismic night where the humour is volcanic, the moves are tectonic, and the cleavage is both geological and generous.
This ain’t your school science class – it’s cocktail hour geology with sultry songs, smouldering dance, sharp wit and a shimmer of burlesque. For grown-ups who like their science gneiss and naughty. No safety glasses required…but you might need a fan to cool off! Strictly 18+ audiences only.
6:00pm – 7:45pm on Saturday 9 August at the Establishment, Dubbo
For a comprehensive list of events happening across NSW and Australia visit the official National Science Week website: scienceweek.net.au
Feature Image: ERTHWRX 2024
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