An internationally acclaimed science writer and broadcaster, Peter Spinks, will run a free four-day science-writing and media-skills workshop at Central Queensland University Rockhampton in the week of April 28 to May 2, 2003.

Mr Spinks’ comprehensive course will teach scientists, technologists, engineers, information technologists and senior postgraduate students the basic skills and strategies needed to convey their work to our media, government, research-funding bodies and the public.

The workshop will cover fundamental science-writing principles and the “rules of the journalism game”, thus equipping scientists with the confidence and media savvy required to project messages clearly and simply.

The course will provide hands-on training in preparing articles, features, media releases and illustrative material for various outlets, including in-house publications, Queensland, Australian and international media and the Internet.

In addition, the sessions will groom participants for science interviews (by both the print and broadcast media), which will be recorded on audio or videotape and then reviewed in class.

Legal issues affecting researchers and the media will also be addressed. Worked examples, reference materials and extensive background notes will be provided. The workshop will be held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 4pm at the DPI Conference Centre, Rockhampton.

To enrol for this important course, please contact Dearne Mayer, Research Training and Projects Officer, Office of Research, on 4923 2604 or email d.mayer@cqu.edu.au.