Questacon Wins International Awards

17 May 2007

Questacon, regarded as one of the world’s leading interactive science centres, has today been presented with Awards in both the organisation and individual categories at the 2006 International Council of Museums (ICOM) Australia Awards.

Presented at the 2007 Museums Australia Conference, the ICOM Australia Awards for International Relations were presented to Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre and Mr Will Inveen, Questacon’s Manager of Science Partnerships.

“The ICOM Australia Award for International Relations celebrates the exceptional work undertaken by individuals and Australian institutions to strengthen international ties and contribute to the cultural richness of our region,” said Dr Ian Galloway, Chairman of ICOM Australia.

“Questacon is delighted to receive this prestigious Award in recognition of our collaborative projects and relationships with Japan and science centres across the Asia Pacific,” said Professor Graham Durant, Questacon Director.

Questacon was established as a national centre in 1988 and was jointly funded by the Australian and Japanese Governments and business communities.

“Questacon is a perpetual symbol of the mutual friendship and goodwill between the Governments, business communities and the people of Australia and Japan. Through the significant investment by both countries, Questacon has achieved a national and international reputation as a leader in the science centre field,” said Prof Durant.

Will Inveen was presented with the Award in recognition of his outstanding work in promoting international relations.

“I also congratulate Will Inveen on this most deserved Award. Will started at Questacon in 1987 as a Volunteer Explainer to foster his interest in science and education. Will’s experience in building international relations through developing or delivering science education and awareness programmes extends throughout Australia and the South Pacific, as well as Timor Leste, South Korea, China and Hong Kong,” Prof Durant said.

Through science exhibitions, science theatre and performances, travelling programmes and online content, Questacon is a national leader in popularising science and technology, raising awareness of the role of science and technology in shaping the future, and improving scientific literacy.