6 Million and Growing

6 October 2005

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre has just welcomed its 6 millionth visitor through the doors.

12 year old Talia Shepherd from Sydney was thrilled when Dr Yuri Blastov, Questacon’s wacky rocket science specialist, presented her with a VIP Q Club membership, a ride in the Questacon balloon and a hamper full of science fun.

When asked how she felt about being the lucky visitor, Talia said, “It’s really cool. I like all the science at Questacon. All the exhibits are really fun.”

Professor Graham Durant, Director of Questacon, was also on hand to offer his congratulations.

“Questacon supports learning through interaction and engagement. What we do is add a new perspective to young people’s experience of science, with the aim of inspiring the scientists of tomorrow. It is an approach that really seems to work and we are recognized internationally as experts in making science fun,” Prof Durant said. “This is a significant milestone for us. I'm delighted that our visitor numbers are on the increase and I don’t think we’ll be waiting another seventeen years for our next six million.”

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre opened in Parkes on 23 November 1988. Since then visitor numbers have grown steadily to 400 000 annually. Questacon outreach programmes also reach another 1 100 000 people across the country, ensuring that Australians everywhere have the chance to engage in the hands on experiences that Questacon offers to inspire innovation and make science enjoyable and accessible to everyone.