Here’s a taster of events in Queensland this National Science Week.
STEM in the Tropics – Mozzies SHIELDS – Science in your backyard. 15 August. Cairns.
Mosquitoes might be tiny, but they can tell us big stories about the health of our environment and communities. Meet the QIMR Berghofer Mosquito Genomics team at STEM in the Tropics and discover how scientists are combining cutting-edge genetics, citizen science and education to track invasive mosquitoes and the diseases they spread. Through the Mozzie SHIELDS project, researchers are uncovering how mosquitoes move, survive and adapt, helping develop smarter, more sustainable ways to manage populations and protect communities. From fieldwork to genomics labs, see how scientific discoveries are being turned into real-world solutions for a healthier Australia.
STEM in the Tropics – UQ Skills Sport. 15 August. Cairns.
What does it take to keep sport fair on the world stage? Find out with UQ Skills at STEM in the Tropics, where science, integrity and innovation come together ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Explore the fascinating world of anti-doping through interactive activities, test your knowledge, and discover career pathways in clean sport. As one of only two International Testing Agency (ITA) Academic Centres worldwide, UQ is helping train the next generation of professionals dedicated to protecting fair competition. Whether you’re a sports fan, science enthusiast or future game-changer, this is your chance to be part of a cleaner, fairer future for sport.
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast. 14 – 16 August. Surfers Paradise.
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast brings three days of high-speed action to the beachfront, with world-class pilots performing breathtaking stunts and aerobatics above the ocean. Beyond the skies, families can explore interactive experiences, entertainment and up-close aviation displays. At the heart of the event is the NXTGN STEM Lab, a hands-on zone where visitors can meet pilots, fly simulators, test their skills and explore the latest technology. Students can also take part in Students with Altitude Day, a free Friday experience for local schools that combines STEM learning, aviation and unforgettable airshow action.
Brains, Boots and Beyond – Exploring Sports Psychology in VR. 18 August. Darling Heights.
Brains, Boots & Beyond is an exciting National Science Week experience that brings the science of the brain to life through Virtual Reality, sport, and hands-on activities. This innovative project combines the power of neuroscience, psychology, resilience, teamwork and recovery with the energy and passion of rugby league.
Featuring inspiring speakers, interactive experiences and an exclusive first look at a new VR experience for National Science Week 2026, this dynamic event reveals how science is shaping sport, health and our everyday lives. Discover the science behind the game, and the brain behind the player.
Monsters and Molecules – Journey to the Centre of the Brain. 19 August. Fortitude Valley.
Cutting edge quantum research meets role play in this Dungeons & Dragons-inspired comedy show, improvised live on stage! Light your torch and tighten your armour, as we explore one of the most complex labyrinths to exist: the HUMAN BRAIN. Can comedian Jaimeson Gilders, educator Joel Gilmore and Professor Lezanne Ooi, navigate the maze to save the day?
Hosted by science communicator and dungeon master Shu Ezackial, the night will feature live music from Melbourne bard, Sean Sully.
The Science of Brainwaves with Hannah Critchlow. 21 August. Noosaville.
Unleash your brain’s superpowers! Have you ever wondered what is happening inside your head when you are sleeping, daydreaming, or focusing on a really tricky game? Join neuroscientist Dr. Hannah Critchlow, author of Brainwave: Find Your Focus and Unleash Your Brain’s Superpowers, on an exciting, mind-bending adventure into the most complex machine in the universe: your brain. With 86 billion tiny nerve cells talking to each other using electricity, your brain is constantly buzzing with activity. Bookings required.
Platypus Venom Revealed. 22 August. Enoggera Reservoir.
Imagine an animal with a duck’s bill, a beaver’s tail, and the ability to both lay eggs and make milk. No wonder people once thought it was fake! But that’s not even the most surprising part. Did you know that the platypus is one of the very few mammals in the world that can produce venom? Even more amazing, only male platypuses make venom, and only during the spring breeding season, using it to compete with other males.
This event will explain how their venom works and why it’s so different from the venom of snakes or spiders. You will also learn how scientists are discovering new and fascinating things about platypuses all the time, helping us understand and protect these incredible animals for the future.
Bush Alchemy – Exploring Indigenous botanicals and bushtucker in spirits. 22 August. Douglas.
We invite you to explore how bushtucker plants are understood, harvested, and transformed into gin through modern distillation practices.
You’ll learn about the chemistry behind native aromatics, the ecological significance of key species, and the cultural knowledge that has shaped their use for thousands of years.
This session blends scientific insight with hands‑on tasting. You’ll sample raw bushtucker ingredients, then experience how those same botanicals evolve when infused into spirits and incorporated into food. Who would have guessed than native lemongrass tastes like roses after it is distilled into gin for some people, while others taste lemon, depending on their genes?!
Expect a rich combination of storytelling, science communication, and flavour exploration, perfect for anyone curious about Indigenous botany, sustainable distillation, or the future of Australian craft spirits.
This event will be delivered by On Country Craft Distillery’s owner and chief distiller, and proud Wiradjuri woman Clair Ryder, with special guest Uncle Rusty (Russell Butler), Senior Traditional Elder of the Bandjin and Warragamay peoples.
This event is free, but bookings are essential. Attendees must be aged 18 years +.
Saving the Tasmanian Devil. 23 August. Enoggera Reservoir.
Get ready to learn about one of Australia’s most famous and unusual animals, the Tasmanian devil! Known for their loud growls and cheeky behaviour, these animals are both exciting and important.
Sadly, Tasmanian devils are in danger because of a serious disease called devil facial tumour disease, which spreads when devils bite each other. In this event, you will discover how scientists and conservation teams are working hard to protect them. From looking after devils in special breeding programs to tracking them in the wild and helping them return to their homes, there is a lot being done to save this iconic species!
Find out how learning about their health, genes, and habitats can help keep Tasmanian devils around for future generations.
Find more events in Queensland by visiting scienceweek.net.au
