Science is the theme dominating UQ�s 2008 Ekka involvement with entomologists, mathematicians and bioscientists this year lured to the iconic 10-day Brisbane event.
Extracting DNA from strawberries and handling stick insects are among the range of interactive and fun educational activities facilitated by the University�s staff and students at the National Science Week pavilion (Building 6).
Ekka enthusiasts can solve maths puzzles, view insects through microscopes, test their responses to stimuli with a reaction timer, learn about the commercialisation of science discoveries, and uncover the secrets of the human body through a variety of anatomy displays.
On August 14 and 15, the display will also feature a team from UQ�s Sport and Exercise Psychology Service offering an assortment of activities that show the potential to affect performance; the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours; attention control and concentration; and the types of communication and their role in a team environment.
The UQ Science display offers activities that can be completed by individuals or groups, and everyone is welcome to participate, or approach a consultant with any questions or queries.
This year marks the Ekka�s 132-year anniversary and a UQ researcher has been instrumental in documenting the event�s history.
Dr Ross Laurie, a lecturer in Australian History at UQ Ipswich, and co-author Associate Professor Joanne Scott from the University of the Sunshine Coast, recently launched Showtime: A History of the Brisbane Exhibition, published by UQP.
The colourful 250-page publication explores everything from Ekka foods, like strawberry ice creams and dagwood dogs, to entertainment in the main ring to what it's like to work at the Ekka, and provides a fascinating sense of the state's development.
As for the fate of the Ekka beyond 2008, Dr Laurie and Dr Scott chose not to speculate.
�Historians are notoriously bad at predicting the future,� Dr Laurie said.
�Clearly the RNA is at a crossroads and they have ambitious plans for the site of the show.
�Ekka enthusiasts are staunch and it will have to be a fine balance between tradition and innovation to keep everyone happy.�
MEDIA: Penny Robinson at UQ Communications (07 3365 9723, penny.robinson@uq.edu.au)
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