Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill and State MP Trish Doyle will help launch the first Science at the Local program for 2017 at Springwood Country Club on March 12.
The Labor politicians will acknowledge a $7000 government grant awarded to the program organisers that will ensure Science at the Local continues in 2017 and beyond.
Two guest speakers will share information about allergies and microplastics from 2.30pm.
Louise Tosetto, a PhD candidate at Macquarie University, will talk about her research on the impact of microplastic contamination – the small pieces of plastic that come from consumer and industrial products – on coastal marine environments.
Also speaking will be Maria Said, CEO of Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia. Ms Said advocates for individuals who live with food allergy and other allergic diseases, working closely with the health system, the food industry, government and community.
Science at the Local is free and consists of short and engaging presentations from leading scientists, with time for Q&A and discussion over a meal or drink.
Local residents and basketball teammates, Kevin Joseph and Hamish Clarke came up with the idea for Science at the Local and were soon joined by Winmalee and Springwood Neighbourhood Centres in running the first event back in 2014.
They have been partners ever since and together form the Blue Mountains Science Hub, a regional focal point for science communication and engagement activities in the mountains.
“We’re so proud of the community that’s emerged around this event,” said Dr Clarke. “We’re looking forward to a big year and hope we can draw even more people to our events and podcasts.”
Other 2017 events will be held on May 21, July 23, September 17 and November 12. The usual venue, Springwood Sports Club, is undergoing renovations so the first few events of 2017 will be at the country club.
To get involved, go to www.facebook.com/ScienceAtTheLocal.
