PROGRAMS OF ROTARIANS - Rotary Down Under

THE SCIENCE
EXPERIENCE
The Science Experience is a national program that encourages
students in Years 9 and 10 to consider science, engineering and
technology as interesting and worthwhile subject and career choices.
Almost 3,000 places are available at the 3 or 4 day program
conducted in approximately 36 university campuses and tertiary
institutions throughout Australia each year. The programs are
organised and conducted by committees based in each institution and follow a similar format.
The programs are essentially 3 or 4 days of hands-on science fun and activities in laboratories,
short interactive lectures in lecture theatres from prominent scientists such as Dr Fiona Wood
(2005 Australian of the Year) and the Sleekest Geek himself, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki and most
programs include a visit to a local research/industry site. Each program provides information
on possible careers and future study opportunities.
In 2011, we introduced a 4 day program at Curtin University in Western Australia. This program
contained the usual science and technology activities with an extra day of engineering and
has proven to be very popular. In 2012 we will be expanding into some regional areas of
Victoria and Queensland hoping to provide local students the opportunity to attend The
Science Experience in their area.
The Science Experience continues to have the support and encouragement from Rotary, the
national and state science teachers associations, the Young Scientists of Australia and the
participating universities and tertiary institutions.
Doncaster Rotary club in Melbourne and Monash University first initiated the program in 1990.
Since then, Rotary clubs throughout Australia have played a major role in the development of
the program through encouragement of students to attend and the full sponsorship of more
than a third of all students who attend the programs. Rotarians serve on local organising
committees and in some instances carry major responsibility for the organisation and conduct
of the 3 or 4 day program. Rotarians have provided billets for many country students attending
programs and often provide social functions, especially barbeques, for students during
programs.
Brochures and application forms are sent to all secondary schools and Rotary clubs in April of
each year and hopefully the information arrives early enough to be distributed at PETS or
District Assemblies. Information and application forms may be accessed and downloaded via
the website www.sciencceexperience.com.au and students are able to make direct online
applications. The programs are non-selective and any Year 9 or 10 student is welcome to
attend. Although not essential to participation, Rotary clubs endorse many of the applications.
Further Information:
The Science Experience Rotary Representative PDG Marilyn Mercer
Ph: 0416 046 848 • Email: mmm@myisp.net.au
Or Kim Aitken, The Science Experience
Ph: +61 3 8288 1001 • Email: kim@scienceexperience.com.au
This is a separate program to The National Youth Science Forum
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