"It's going to be really messy and really visual."
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That's how Science Space director Stuart Creal described a grand-scale science experiment planned for this weekend to celebrate the Science Space's 30th birthday.
The experiment and birthday celebrations, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, are free to the public.
Mr Creal is proud of Science Space's 30-year history to date, adding the centre's retro exhibits and innovative shows have captured many a child's imagination.
A record 58,000 visitors, including 18,000 school students are expected to attend Science Space's premises at the Innovation Campus, this year.
"The children leave Science Space thinking science is just the coolest thing ever," Mr Creal said.
It now boasts the state's most advanced digital planetarium, and newly-developed science theatre shows.
However, timelessly entertaining science demonstrations, such as the liquid nitrogen show, are still running at Science Space.
"Very often I'm approached by people who will have nostalgic memories of displays, and that's the lovely thing about having a science centre that's been around for such a long time," he said.
The children leave Science Space thinking science is just the coolest thing ever.
- Science Space director Stuart Creal
"We go for retro exhibits. Children today are so used to iPads and iPhones, they come in here and they have to physically move a handle to see something happen, it's a different experience."
Mr Creal has set his sights on securing the centre's future. There are expansion plans slated for the site, pending $6 million in funding from the NSW Government, which is yet to be approved.
The University of Wollongong wants to build a maker space.
The pilot version will provide university students with access to laser cutters and 3D printers, so they can work on their own innovations.
The grand plan, requiring State Government funding, is to create Australia's first regional, community-accessible maker's space.
"Anyone in the region will be able to take out a maker space membership and gain access to the technology.
"One of my dreams is to have a researcher in residence where they can work in that space and talk to our customers about their research.
"Science Space is the perfect outlet for that type of engagement," Mr Creal said.
Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
