Science comes to life in wacky expo

BUBBLY CHARACTER: World-record holder Marty McBubble shows of his unique form of science.

The largest mobile science expo in Australia comes to Geelong for the first time this month, bringing hands-on fun to fascinate aspiring scientists of all ages.

Event director Brian Haddy expects several thousand young experiment enthusiasts to turn up when Science Alive! comes to GMHBA Stadium on 25-26 May.

Visitors can take a virtual tour of the universe, interact with native animals, fly a drone, program a robot, make some slime or get up close to a Dr Who inspired Dalek.

“The slime-making is always popular for younger visitors, and the virtual reality and infra-red selfies appeal to older age groups,” he said.

Kids of all ages will love watching the Army’s Drone Racing Team in action and having a go too.

“We are very excited to have the Army’s Drone Racing Team attend the event,” Haddy said.

“Science is much more than test tubes and lab coats, and Science Alive! really gives people an opportunity to see this.”

And the whole family can view the night sky in two huge stardomes.

“The thing that really sets this expo apart from others is the interactive nature of the displays,” Haddy said. “There really is something for everyone here.”

After years touring South Australia the mobile expo comes to Geelong for locals to discover how the world depends on science, technology, engineering and maths.

“While there is much emphasis on fun and entertainment, we also show how important science is in our everyday world—we all depend on it,” he said.

Visitors can get up close to native Australian animals, check out Museum Victoria’s dinosaur bones, see forensic and marine science displays, challenge themselves with interactive Questacon exhibits and much more.

The expo also features illusions by Curiosity Show icons Rob Morrison and Deane Hutton, free-floating bubble world-record holder Marty McBubble and other explosive shows.

Entry to Science Alive! is free for children under 15 years of age.