You no longer need to get arrested to pose for this photo. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
A section of Questacon has transformed into a forensic investigation lab for National Science Week (9 to 17 August) in a special partnership with the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
Once they’ve donned their own white lab coat, kids can try their hand at a range of operations like fingerprint matching, decoding activities, secret writing and artificial intelligence (AI) demonstrations.
They’ll score stickers for a ‘Junior Forensic Investigator’ report card along the way, while also meeting several sniffer dogs and their handlers from the AFP’s canine unit (and of course, Constable Kenny Koala).
It’s the third time AFP and Questacon have collaborated on the event, described as a “highlight for the forensics team”.
“We enjoy it just as much as the kids,” AFP principal forensic scientist Dr Kylie Jones says.
“The AFP is recognised as a world leader in forensic science and technical intelligence, so it’s a privilege to both give young minds a behind-the-scenes look at what we do and hopefully also inspire them for their future careers.”
The aim is to show kids how STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) applies in real life – in a fun way.
“Forensics cover a wide range of areas, from robotics and video analysis to biology and chemistry, so if someone is STEM-minded, there are career opportunities in the AFP,” Ms Jones says.
Here’s what you can expect:
Book tickets to the AFP x Questacon Day at Ticketek (regular entry fees apply).
