Amazing DISCOVERY

Imagine a world without modern medicine; without telecommunications; a world of unproductive agriculture; a world without knowledge. So much of what we take for granted today is due to scientific discovery. Australia has an abundance of success in the world of scientific achievements and many of these advances come from CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), Australias national science agency which was established in 1926.

CSIRO Discovery is a modern, sun-filled complex located at Clunies Ross Street Black Mountain, Canberra that opened to the public in May 2000. It has become a popular attraction in Canberra because of the atmosphere of the building and the many things of interest on display. The award-winning building features a spectacular large atrium, function facilities, the Discovery Café, education centre and contains two floors of glass-fronted, working laboratories where scientists and technicians undertake field crop research. Their presence provides visitors to Discovery with a unique view of science research in progress.

The main focus is a sophisticated, elegant and interactive exhibition showcasing everything from the latest research into green energy and the new hydrogen future through to global climate change, Australias woodland biodiversity (complete with live bird sounds), amazing technologies (not to be missed is the Haptic workbench - a three-dimensional, touch sensitive computer for medical research), the Virtual Reality 3D cinema and the latest in gene technology and the new age sheep.

While Discovery aims to capture the imaginations of all people, many families with younger children are especially enjoying Discovery because of its little live creatures (with daily talks and demonstrations running during the school holidays), its InfoCell of fun and educational CD Roms and the cool hands-on experiments and microscopes available in the Optuslab (where children can put on a white lab coats and pretend to be a scientist!)

Discovery is one of Canberras major attractions. It shows that science can be presented in an entertaining way to demystify and educate people of all age groups about the fascinating world of research and innovation. Discovery endeavours to bring the concepts and achievements of CSIROs research to the community, both the general public and business and industry.

CSIRO Discovery is open to the public 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday (including most public holidays) and weekends 11.00 am to 3.00 pm.

Entry costs: Adults $6.00, Adult concessions $3.00, School age children $3.00 ( under school-age children are free) and Families $15.00

For all enquiries including special school holiday programes please phone (02) 6246 4646.