Over 200 students have celebrated National Science Week at CQUniversity Mackay (last Wednesday) by taking part in activities proving science is not for the faint-hearted.

They were drawn from as far away as Middlemount and Proserpine.

Science fans gather in Mackay

Students enjoyed the Great Big Science Gig, a zany mix of rock music, science demonstrations and quirky information. They learnt about the 5000 varieties of potatoes grown all over the world which are crucial to alleviating hunger in developing countries.

Robots designed to mimic snake movements were demonstrated using an impromptu game of Twister^TM and antibiotics purified from crocodile blood, heavy atoms, card tricks and earthquake skits were used to highlight the importance of science in everyone's lives.

CQUniversity senior lecturer Delma Clifton said the science theatre show demonstrated the innovation of Chris Krishna-Pillay, Manger of the CSIRO School Education Centre (Victoria), and was supported by Darren Vogrig (CSIROSEC, New South Wales) and Aria award winner Marty, The Moose, Lubran.

"Chris, Darren and Marty loved their return visit to Mackay and being able to perform in the excellent facilities of the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music," Delma said.

Students also extended their science experience with a special SCINEMA viewing. The series of short films described life under the sea, possible life on the moon and the life of echidnas.

"Both students and teachers thoroughly enjoyed the big day out of the classroom and are looking forward to the next National Science Week and all the surprises and innovations 2009 will bring."

"Four lucky students enjoyed their lucky door prizes of Be What You Want To Be prize packs and we hope to see them all back on campus soon, becoming what THEY want to be."