World Science Festival co-founder Brian Greene, with Neil deGrasse Tyson in the background.
Roy Rochlin/Getty Image.

Fabulous fun at Australia’s World Science Festival, Cosmos Magazine, 19 February 2019

Now in its fourth year, Queensland’s international science celebration has something for everyone. 

Throughout March, the annual World Science Festival Brisbane will see hundreds of expert presenters and tens of thousands of visitors exploring science and art throughout Queensland, Australia.

“The festival celebrates the intersection between science and the arts through gripping debates, theatre, interactive experiments and explorations, musical performance, bespoke events and major outdoor experiences,” says the event’s Christine Robertson

More than half a million visitors have attended over the past three years, and organisers are expecting more than 200,000 in 2019.

With more than 100 events for all ages and backgrounds, there is something for everyone. Here are our top 10 pics.

Time and the Creative Cosmos

Hosted by US physicist and event co-founder Brian Greene, and featuring the dance troupe Pilobolus, this event is billed as a “thrilling fusion of science and art”. Greene will pull back the curtain on mysteries of life and the universe. Suitable for all ages.

Where: Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
When: 23 March, 8:00pm
Tickets here

Night at the Museum

Explore the Queensland Museum at night and see firsthand what happens when the doors shut. An ideal event for children and their families, the evening includes live music, science demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Suitable for all ages.

Where: Queensland Museum & Science Centre, South Brisbane
When: 23 March, 5:30pm
Tickets here

Street Science

The festival takes to the streets in this immersive and explorative block party. Moving across Queensland throughout March, scientists of all ages can explore interactive exhibitions and demonstrations. Free admission.

Where: Multiple locations
When: Multiple dates
Details here

Pioneers in Science

Adele Green, senior scientist at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer, discusses her research in skin cancer. Moderated by Rob Bell, attendees are encouraged to submit questions online in advance. Recommended for high school students.

Where: Multiple locations
When: Multiple dates
Tickets here

Scientia Address: Tim Flannery and John Doyle

Tim Flannery is a scientist and writer known for his work on climate change. He says, “Sometime this century, the day will arrive when the human influence on the climate will overwhelm all natural factors.” In this intimate conversation with comedian John Doyle, Flannery will discuss his life, inspirations, and hopes for the future of our world. Open to ages 13 and older.

Where: QPAC Concert Hall, South Brisbane
When: 19 March, 7pm
Tickets here

We Will Be Martians: Our future on the Red Planet

Event co-founder Brian Greene hosts a discussion with American astronaut and physician Yvonne Cagle, first Australian in space, astronaut Andy Thomas, along with psychology professor Kate Reynolds and astrophysicist Christine Charles. The panel will “contemplate what it will take to become a space-faring species”.

Where: QPAC Concert Hall, South Brisbane
When: 24 March 10:30pm
Tickets here

Antarctica: What Happens There Matters Everywhere

A panel of experts, moderated by science communicator and palaeontologist Paul Willis, discuss the storied history of Antarctica, it’s formidable environment and the unusual global treaty governing the continent. Suitable for all ages.

Where: QPAC Concert Hall
When: 22 March, 5:30pm
Tickets here

From Australia to the World: The Lost Apollo Moments

Australian scientists were responsible for ensuring that the first transmissions from the Apollo lunar missions were received and transmitted around the world. Hear the story firsthand from a panel of scientists and engineers who made those incredible early images and recordings possible. Recommended for ages 13 and older.

Where: Empire Theatre, Toowoomba
When: 22 March, 7pm
Tickets here

Science Gets Social Series

This collection of events for adults covers topics including the science of wine, genetic ancestry tests, forensics and much more. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and every event is sure to be a fun and engaging night out.

Where: Festival Lab, Melbourne Street, South Brisbane
When: Multiple dates
Tickets here

After Dark at Queensland Museum

This event is an adults-only after dark exploration, with live music, talks from experts, science demonstrations, and access to exhibitions. There will also be an appearance from the baby turtles of Brisbane’s Hatchery.

Where: Queensland Museum & Science Centre, South Brisbane
When: 22 March, 5:30pm
Tickets here

More information, including the full event program, is available at the festival website.