Nineteen budding year 10 scientists from the Mackay region gathered at Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay this week to learn more about their favourite subject.

The Siemens Science Experience is designed to show kids the fun and practical side of science as well as provide a social activity for the kids on their school holidays.

Over a 3-day period, the kids are being kept busy looking at a variety of subjects such as the diversity of life with local environmental scientist Dr Judith Wake. They are delving into the interesting world of multi-media with local artist Dr Ashley Holmes and they are learning to save lives with nursing lecturer, Kerri Burke.

Parents are also getting a break in the evenings as ten pin bowling and movies are part of the event.
Theunis Neiuwoudt and Matthew Summersgill, who are from Collinsville but attend Whitsunday Christian College (PICTURED left to right) were among 19 budding year 10 scientists

"This is a fun and educational way to spend 3 days, meet like-minded students and do something a bit different," said CQU Mackay lecturer and program coordinator Dr Anthony Wheeler.

"All activities stem from programs on offer at CQU Mackay and allow the student to understand the requirements of various professions before they enter Year 10 and face the challenge of subject selection for upper school," said Dr Wheeler.

This program is organised by CQU Mackay in conjunction with the Science Schools Foundation Inc and is sponsored by Siemens Ltd, IT Skills Hub and Education Queensland's Smart State Initiative, Spotlight on Science.  There is also local support from Rotary.

CQU Mackay science lecturer Delma Clifton assists Townsville student Holly-Maree Norman of Ryan Catholic College, this week at CQU Mackay Siemens Science experience
Clermont State High student Hannah Lawrence (PICTURED) was among 19 budding year 10 scientists from the Mackay region