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New $9.4m Sparklab Sciencentre connects Queenslanders to science

Minister for Science and Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch invited Queenslanders to experiment, explore and engage with science as the new Sparklab Sciencentre at Queensland Museum South Bank opens its doors to the public tomorrow (Monday).

“The new SparkLab Sciencentre, developed with $9.4 million from the Palaszczuk Government, will bring science to life,” Minister Enoch said

“This is the first major renovation to the Sciencentre since it opened in 2004.

“Visitors can step inside SparkLab to test ideas and find creative ways to solve problems – the very same skills that scientists, engineers and mathematicians use every day.

“SparkLab is about connecting to science in a hands-on, fun way with 40 interactive exhibitions, featuring a science bar with hands-on experiments and demonstrations, and a maker space with the opportunity to design, make, and evaluate new creations,” she said.

“The new sciencentre is also a showcase for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), supporting the Government’s Advance Queensland initiative to put Queensland at the forefront of STEM learning.”

Minister Enoch said the new Sparklab would contribute to the ongoing success of the Queensland Museum Network.

“Queensland Museum here in Brisbane attracted more than two million visitors in 2017-18,” Minister Enoch said.

“Queenslanders are responding with passion to Queensland Museum exhibitions and programming, including the very popular World Science Festival Brisbane, which the Palaszczuk Government has secured for another three years from 2019.

“With this funding confirmed for the next three years, the future looks bright for STEM learning in Queensland,” she said.

Queensland Museum Network Acting CEO Dr Jim Thompson said the team at the museum are delighted and excited to welcome visitors to the new vibrant and interactive SparkLab.

“We are looking forward to rolling out the welcome mat and opening the doors to a world of scientific discovery where people can test ideas, look for answers and be curious about what science has to offer,” Dr Thompson said.

“Science is everywhere in our daily lives, and science is fun, without it you wouldn’t be able to drive to work, phone a friend, or turn the lights on, so it’s important that we are able to connect with and inspire the next generation to develop interests and skills in STEM.”

Queensland Museum partnered with Science Museum London, to deliver SparkLab, based on the group’s popular Wonderlab galleries. For SparkLab tickets visit: www.qm.qld.gov.au.