Written by Marisa Wikramanayake Tuesday, 17 August 2010 16:12
NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK was launched by the Minister for Science and Innovation, the Hon Bill Marmion and WA Chief Scientist Lyn Beazley at Perth Cultural Centre, last Friday.
The minister assisted primary schoolchildren from Woodbridge Primary School and Highgate Primary School in releasing fish and macro invertebrate species into the new Native Wetland.
“National Science Week highlights the integral role that science, technology and innovation play in shaping our society and ensuring the sustainable growth of our economy,” the minister said.
“Western Australia has much to be proud of and to celebrate in the science arena today.
“However, we need to ensure that, for the future, today’s students are encouraged to become our next generation of scientists and scientific thinkers.”
2010 marks the International Year of Biodiversity and the theme of biodiversity is present in many National Science Week events throughout Western Australia.
“National Science Week provides a unique opportunity for all Australians to come together to talk about science.” said Ms Sarah Bugg, Chair of National Science Week WA.
“In 2010, we are looking forward to an exceptional year of engagement and entertainment throughout the state.”
Western Australia’s Chief Scientist, Professor Lyn Beazley spoke on the importance of biodiversity in Western Australia, pointing out that the state is known internationally as a biodiversity hotspot.
The Native Wetland was created to raise awareness of biodiversity and the area’s natural history.
Ms. Irene Stainton, Chair of the Western Australian Museum’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee, in her welcome to country, briefly outlined the history of the area and the importance of recreating a wetland in the centre of Perth.
“This place is considered to be a site of living history that draws together our traditional practices and our contemporary values.”
The Native Wetland is part of the East Perth Redevelopment Authority’s revitalisation plans for the Perth Cultural Centre, a project undertaken in consultation with environmental scientist and ABC television personality Mr Josh Byrne.
Director of the Western Australian Museum Mr Alec Coles explained how to use the Native Wetland to learn about biodiversity with the Western Australian Museum’s biodiversity backpacks.
The state will hold more than 200 events from 14 – 22 August for National Science Week. It is organised by Scitech in WA with the National Science Week Coordinating Committee with support from the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, CSIRO, the ABC and the Australian Science Teachers Association.
