The centre participated in two outreach events at Woollahra Library at Double Bay, NSW, in April. We explored science through art, hands on crafts and games that focussed on the biological and biochemistry themes of the centre. We hosted a creative school holiday workshop with children ages 8-12 on day one, then participated in WonderLab at Woollahra Library. We introduced the educational resources and activities from CIPPS, as well as making peptides, proteins, and wearable arts from pipe cleaners with children and their family members at the library.

The Crafty Scientists workshop featured three activity tables led by CIPPS Outreach Ambassadors. Patra Petrohilos facilitated the card game Pop! Goes the Devil, Adele Gonsalvez taught children how to draw a platypus, and Junming He guided participants in creating cells using air dry clay. Through this interactive session, attendees were introduced to a range of biological and biochemical concepts related to CIPPS research. They learned how genetic diversity affects the survival of Tasmanian devils, explored the physical characteristics of the platypus, and discovered the different types of cells that make up the human body. The workshop provided a welcoming space for children to explore science through hands-on activities, encouraging learning through play, while also giving our Outreach Ambassadors the opportunity to educate and inform the public about the research conducted at the centre.

On day two, CIPPS was featured as part of the ongoing WonderLab series at Woollahra Library. WonderLab is a hands-on physical science exhibition showcasing experiments and activities focused on light, sound, electromagnetism, forces, puzzles and optical illusions. Outreach Ambassadors, Patra Petrohilos, Junming He, Lara Holburn, and Belinda Zhang led a dedicated station where attendees could meet a scientist and take part in interactive activities. These included building a peptide out of pipe cleaners, creating a paper-cut cell, and learn about peptide science through a range of various educational resources. WonderLab attracted many visitors throughout the day, providing CIPPS with the opportunity to engage with a broad audience and share insights into the centre’s research and scientific work.