A vomit-inducing cane toad sausage has been trialled to try to prevent native species from eating toads.
Scientists drop them out of helicopters in the hopes that species like quolls will eat them and find them disgusting, therefore not eating a real toad.
These are just some of the stories that will be discussed at the World Science Festival when it visits Ipswich on Sunday 17 and Monday 18 March.
The coolest jobs in science, the story of the stars, odd scientific discoveries and hands-on science will all be explored at The Workshops Rail Museum, which will be turned into a science lab as part of the festival’s regional program.
Physicist and television personality Dr Joel Gilmore (pictured) will be hosting the Science Says! which combines science with comedy.
“It shouldn’t be that the only place to go and see a science talk is at a capital city university. I am really looking forward to coming out to The Workshops Rail Museum in Ipswich again,” Dr Gilmore said.
“Most scientists have really interesting stories to tell about their work. But science lectures can be a little dry, so Science Says! is an opportunity to have a light-hearted discussion about some of the latest discoveries.”
Minister for Science and Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch encouraged Ipswich locals to mark their calendars.
“Ipswich has fully embraced World Science Festival Brisbane as one of the world’s most engaging, exciting and educational science events ever to be held on our doorstep,” she said.
“Last year the festival attracted more than 200,000 people and delivered more than 100 events across six locations – Gladstone, Chinchilla, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Brisbane and Townsville.
“The World Science Festival Brisbane continues to grow in Ipswich, and last year more than 1200 people attended, which is fantastic.”
Queensland Museum Network’s CEO Dr Jim Thompson said the Regional Program offers a stellar line up of shows and presenters talking all things space, medical science, and jobs of the future.
“Science is always evolving and by taking it out of the lab into public spaces is a great way to share the latest discoveries and advancements that will impact our lives,” Dr Thompson said.
See the full program here.
Ipswich program
STARGAZING: Ipswich
6.30pm – 7.15pm, 7.30pm – 8.15pm, Saturday 16 March 2019 I The Workshops Rail Museum
Do you ever wonder about the stars twinkling above you? Come along for a night under the stars, this is the perfect opportunity to switch off and explore the natural luminosity of Ipswich’s beautiful night sky.
Brisbane Astronomical Society will provide telescopes for you to explore and identify the stars to unlock the secrets of our observable universe. Free, bookings essential.
STREET SCIENCE: Ipswich
9.30am-3.00pm, Sunday, 17 March 2019 I The Workshops Rail Museum
In 2019 the Workshop Rail Museum will turn into a science playground with FREE immersive and family-friendly events for everyone to enjoy. Take part in a range of hands-on activities that explore everything from new technology to environmental conservation, as you discover the wonder and excitement of science. Free, no booking required.
SCIENCE NATION: Science Says!
6.00pm – 7.00pm, Sunday 17 March 2019 I The Workshops Rail Museum
Presented by The Science Nation, Science Says! is science as you’ve never seen it before, and with lots of laughter! Join us as brilliant scientists, gifted comedians and talented communicators use their wits and wittiness to uncover the top scientific discoveries – and a few of the odder ones, too.
Hosted by Dr Joel – scientist, comedian and co-host of Food Lab on SBS – you’re guaranteed a night of raucous fun, thrilling competition and, if you’re lucky, you’ll learn something too. Tickets $10, bookings essential.
COOL JOBS: Ipswich (School Program)
10:00-11:00am, Monday 18 March 2019 I The Workshops Rail Museum
The festival’s ever-popular Cool Jobs is back to bring you face-to-face with amazing scientists doing amazing jobs. Learn what it takes to do some of the coolest jobs on earth and how these people inspire the world to learn and get excited about science.