1. Events for Students
a) 8th - 10th July, Three Synchrotron Science Workshops, Australian Synchrotron
Hands-on physics lab sessions for Interactions of Light and Matter (Year 11 - 12) (Tues) and Synchrotron and its Applications (Year 10 - 12 (Weds). Participants can take part in experiments using specialised equipment to learn about the interaction of light and energy, nuclear physics, radioactivity and dark matter. The programs also include a tour of the Australian Synchrotron.
A new workshop is Colours of Light, aligned with the VCE Chemistry Curriculum, with hands-on experimental application of colorimetry and spectroscopy (Thurs, 3 hrs)
Cost*: $54.00 per participant for 4.5 hour program (plus $0.50 Humanitix fee)
$44.50 per participant for S&iA lab only (plus $0.50 Humanitix fee)
$44.50 per participant for 3 hour program (plus $0.50 Humanitix fee)
*Funded places: A limited number of funded places are available for participants to attend the Synchrotron Tours and Lab Sessions, who would not be able to attend without financial support.
For more details and for students to register click here
b) 11th July Swinburne University Innovation in Action 9:30am - 3:00pm, Hawthorn campus
The Swinburne Innovation in Action school holiday program is a 1-day program based at our Hawthorn campus where Year 10 - 12 students are given the knowledge and tools they need to come up with brilliant new ideas to solve real-world problems.
The program is free. Click here for the flyer. Click here to register.
c) 15th July, Science Communication Panel: Telling the Stories of the Universe. For secondary and tertiary students, 3pm, , Swinburne University
An inspiring and interactive panel discussion featuring some of astrophysics’ most passionate science communicators. Whether you're dreaming of a career in STEM or just curious about how scientists connect with the world, this panel will explore how we can share the wonder of the universe with everyone, from the classroom to TikTok.
The panel includes: Dr Katie Mack (see bio under item 2), Dr Sara Webb (Swinburne, her website), Rami Mandow (CSIRO Parkes, SpaceAustralia.com) and Dr Kirsten Banks (UNSW, her website). Prof Alan Duffy is the MC. (Swinburne, his website)
Audience: This session is aimed at upper secondary and tertiary students.
Date and Time: 15th July, 3:00pm to 4:00pm
Venue: AMDC 301 Hawthorn campus, Swinburne University (in-person event, recording will be made available)
Cost: Free, to book: click here.
d) 16th - 18th July Swinburne Space Challenge
Over three days, students will embark on science experiences, learning and working with astronomers and space scientists on challenge-based problems.
They will explore the realm of space law, gravity, satellites and rovers as they engage in hands-on activities and immersive workshops. They will tackle current and future space challenges and use their creativity to pitch innovative ideas for the future of space use. They will also visit Swinburne’s 3D astro tour and check out the two supercomputers at Swinburne.
Cost: $250* For more information and to register click here.
* Funded places: A limited number of funded places are available for students who would not be able to attend without financial support. To apply, please complete the confidential application form before you register.
e) 14th August. The Science Behind Galaxy Quest, 6pm - 9pm, RMIT
Professor Greentree will explore the scientific principles underlying the fictional universe of Galaxy Quest. From quantum mechanics to the physics of space travel, discover how the film's imaginative concepts intersect with real-world science. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a fan of the movie, this lecture promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.
Cost: Free, but seats are limited. Under 18 with parent or legal guardian
To register: click here.
f) 14th August Girls in Physics Breakfast in Geelong
The support of the Invergowrie Foundation has enabled VicPhysics to increase the subsidy for the student fee for the regional breakfasts. The fee this year is now $15. Starting Times in 2025. This year the regional events will start at 8:30am.
Topics: i) How important are powders? ii) Rethinking Waste: Engineering a Circular Future with Negin Amini and Sirjana Adhikari, Deakin University
Bookings open Closing date: 4th August Flyer is available
g) 19th August: How to Program a Quantum Computer with Chris Ferrie, 6pm Swinburne University
This hybrid Lecture on 'How to program a Quantum Computer' will be held on Tuesday, 19th August 2025 at Swinburne University of Technology in Hawthorn.
The presenter is A/Prof Chris Ferrie, a quantum physicist from the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS).
Bio: Chris is a quantum physicist at the University of Technology, Sydney where he researches and lectures on quantum physics, computation, and engineering. His passion is communicating science including writing over 70 children’s books which are not only very popular but are highly regarded. Titles include: Where Did the Universe Come From? And other cosmic Questions, What you shouldn’t Know about Quantum Computers and Quantum Bullsh*t: How to Ruin your Life with Advice from quantum physics
Abstract: Chris will explain how a quantum computer works and you can get it to perform tasks.
The program will start at 6:00pm with pizzas and drinks. The venue is ATC101 on the ground floor of the ATC building at the Hawthorn campus.
For more information and to register click here. The cost is $10.00 inc GST per person for those attending in person, there is no cost for online access.
h) 24th August, Peter Mac Open Day
Th Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is hosting the Peter Mac Open Day, Face to Face on Sunday August 24th from 9am - 1pm at the Parkville campus. This opportunity to attend Peter Mac is designed to enable prospective students to discuss career pathways with both clinicians in the field as well as university representatives and also University students currently undertaking these programs. It's also an excellent opportunity to see a department in action.
Click here for their flyer.
i) 27th August Girls in Physics Breakfast in Traralgon
The support of the Invergowrie Foundation has enabled VicPhysics to increase the subsidy for the student fee for the regional breakfasts. The fee this year is now $15. Starting Times in 2025. This year the regional events will start at 8:30am.
Topic: Molecular Movies with X-ray lasers with A/Prof Nadia Zatsepin, Swinburne University. Bookings Open. Closing date: 18th August Flyer is available
j) 3rd, 10th, 17th Sept, 8th, 15th, 22nd Oct. Physics Gymnasium Lectures
The Gymnasium lectures return for an intensive season of weekly events. Some speakers are yet to be confirmed, but the program includes popular presenters such as Roger Rassool and David Jamieson.
Days: Wednesdays
Time: 5:15 refreshments, 5:30 – 6:30 Lecture and 10 minutes questions
Venue: Hercus Theatre, David Caro Building, University of Melbourne, Parkville.
Cost: Zero
3rd Sept Speaker: Prof Roger Rassool
Title: tbc. To book.
10th Sept Speaker: Prof. Ann Roberts
Optics: The Future is Meta
Join us for an enlightening lecture, where we delve into the cutting-edge world of optical technologies and metamaterials. Discover how these innovative materials are revolutionizing the way we interact with light, paving the way for breakthroughs in telecommunications, microscopes and imaging techniques. Don't miss this opportunity to glimpse the future of optics!
To book
17th Sept Speaker: TBC To book
8th Oct Dr. Peter Cox
Title: TBC To book.
15th Oct Prof. David Jamieson
Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity: light, space and time
Join us for a lecture that explores the fascinating world of Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity. Discover how space and time intertwine, depending on your perspective, and witness how these extraordinary phenomena impact our everyday lives. Prepare to expand your mind as we delve into the captivating realm of light, space and time.
To book.
22nd Oct Prof. Harry Quiney
Wave or Particle? The enigma of light.
Join us for an illuminating exploration of light and matter. From its historical conception to the cutting-edge mysteries of today, we’ll delve into the perplexing question: is light a wave, a particle, or both? Uncover the mind-bending science behind this fundamental concept and discover where the future of photonics might lead.
To book
k) VCE Revision Lecture: Hybrid. Sunday, 14th September, Swinburne University
This year's Revision Lecture will be held on Sunday, 14th September from 10:00am until 2:50pm.
It will be offered as a hybrid event, on-line and in person at the Hawthorn campus.
The presenter will be Colin Hopkins OAM. The on-line chat room will have experienced teachers available to answer questions.
Lunch will be provided by Swinburne University for the students.
Swinburne University will also provide campus tours and their Astro tour at lunchtime. These can be booked at Registration on the day.
The cost is $28.00 inc GST and participants will get access to revision material. Teachers can attend at no cost when accompanying their students, otherwise the cost is $28.00. The flyer has more information.
Students can book at this webpage for the Students on the Vicphysics website, where there is additional information, payment must be by credit card. Teachers can book their students at this webpage and pay for them by either credit card or by EFT.
Return to top
2. Events for General Public
a) July Lectures in Physics: Fridays in July
The University of Melbourne annual lecture series start in a few weeks. The lectures begin at 6pm and there are refreshments afterwards. The lectures are:
- 4th July, Pacific Sky Knowledge with Prof Clive Ruggles, University of Leicester
- 11th July, Quantum biotechnology and quantum sensing with A/Prof David Simpson, University of Melbourne
- 18th July, Quantum Computing: from Science Fiction to Powerful Technology with Dr Josh Combes, University of Melbourne
- 25th July, Quantum century: Unlocking the universe’s secrets and shaping our future with Dr Danielle Holmes, UNSW
- 1st August, The science and stories of Melbourne's particle accelerators with Dr Adam Steinberg, University of Melbourne
For the abstracts of the series and bookings, please click here. The events are free.
b) Public Lecture: Laser Physics by Donna Strickland, Nobel Laureate, 6:00pm, Mon, 7th July RMIT
Venue: The Capitol, 113 Swanston St Melbourne
Professor Donna Strickland, a trailblazer in laser physics, was awarded the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics for her pioneering work in developing Chirped Pulse Amplification (CPA). This groundbreaking technique has revolutionized laser technology, enabling advancements in fields ranging from health to precision manufacturing.
This Lecture is part of the Australian Institute of Physics celebration of the UNESCO Year of Quantum Science and Technology. It is hosted by RMIT University's Centre of Applied Quantum Technologies and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence Optical Microcombs for Breakthrough Science.
Cost: free. Bookings: Click here.
c) Public Lecture The End of Everything (Astrophysically Speaking) with Dr Katie Mack from Perimeter Institute, 6:00pm, 15th July, Swinburne University
Abstract: The Big Bang theory tells us how the universe began—but how does it end?
In this gripping talk, Dr Katie Mack dives into modern astrophysics to uncover the ultimate fate of the cosmos. From heat death and vacuum decay to the Big Crunch and more, she’ll take us on a journey through the wildest physics, catastrophic scenarios, and mind-bending possibilities that await the universe.
Bio: Dr Katherine (Katie) Mack holds the Hawking Chair in Cosmology and Science Communication at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics. Her research focuses on dark matter, the early universe, and the fate of the cosmos. Katie is also one of the most recognisable voices in science communication online, with hundreds of thousands of followers across BlueSky, Instagram, and Facebook. Katie's book , New Scientist review
Date and Time: 15th July, 6:00pm refreshments, 6:30pm - 7:30pm Lecture
Venue: AMDC 301 Hawthorn campus, Swinburne University
Cost: $15 to book: click here.
3. Events for Teachers
a) Just in Time PD for Unit 4. Each Thursday
VicPhysics has secured funding to enable the Just in Time program for Unit 3 that is currently running and is scheduled to finish this week, to be continued for Unit 4.
Each Thursday, two teachers share their plans for the week, starting 10 days ahead. This PD is for teachers teaching Unit 4 for the first time or seeking a refresher course. The sessions are online and from the broadcast studio at John Monash Science School, so participants are able to see demonstrations and other practical activities. The presenters are Kathryn Grainger and Dr Penny Hale from John Monash Science School
The one hour sessions start at 3:45pm with the last 15 mins for questions from participants. The series for Unit 3 sessions finish this week. As they are looking content to be covered in 10 days time, last week's session was about preparation for Unit 4. When you register you will get access to videos of these sessions.
Registration Fee: $60 with discounts available. To register click here. Click here for flyer
Limitation: Due to the conditions placed on the use of the studio, this event is only for teachers from Government and Catholic schools.
b) Talk, Dinner and Catching up, Weds 13th August: Effective language for teaching quantum ideas with A/Prof Chris Ferrie
The next event in this series is on Weds, 13th August at Monash Tech Schoo, Clayton Campus, Monash University. It will also be available on line.
The guest speaker is A/Prof Chris Ferrie, a quantum physicist from UTS where he researches and lectures on quantum physics, computation, and engineering. His passion is communicating science including writing over 70 children’s books which are not only very popular but are highly regarded. Titles include Where Did the Universe Come From? And other cosmic Questions, What you shouldn't Know about Quantum Computers, Quantum Bullsh*t: How to Ruin your Life with Advice from quantum physics and The Cat in the Box, his website
This lecturing and writing experience has given him insights into the language to use when explaining complex ideas, which he is happy to share.
The cost is $45 ($40 for Vicphysics members only) and covers food and drinks. To book click here, for flyer
c) Industry Days for Teachers: Warrnambool, Mildura and Bendigo
The Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) is running a FREE professional development series designed to connect teachers with real-world applications of maths in industry. The program is for maths teachers, STEM teachers and careers advisors. The dates are:
- Deakin University Warrnambool: Tues, 12th August
- La Trobe University Mildura: Thurs, 28th August
- La Trobe University Benigo: Tues, 9th September
This flyer has more information. Check here for program details and to register.
d) Out of Field PD: Forces & Motion (1 venue), Light & Sound (2 venues)
The format for each of the three events is 2 two-hour online sessions after school and one full day in person session in the week in between.
- Forces and Motion at Kew High School. Dates: 7th and 18th August after school and 14th August full day. Flyer
- Light and Sound at Kew High School. Dates: 21st August and 1st Sept after school and 28th August full day. Flyer
- Light and Sound in Moe Presented by Barbara McKinnon and Pete Furlong. Dates: 26th August and 9th Sept after school and 2nd Sept full day. Flyer
- Cost of events: $330 per participant with a discount for teachers from Government schools and from schools with a low ICSEA rank. Discounted cost is $220.
To Book an event: Click on the link above.
e) A Microcredential in Physics Skills Enhancement. Begins 25th August
This specialised course offers foundational physics knowledge and skills essential for physics-driven STEM fields, opening doors for Australians from diverse backgrounds to engage with AUKUS and the nuclear industry. It is offered by Flinders University in SA. It is a hybrid course with an online component plus 2 Lab days at the Bedford Park campus. The Lab days are for Stream 1: Sept 23 & 24 and for Stream 2: Sept 30 & Oct 1
The contact time is 35 hours. There is a course fee, but there are fee waivers (35 in total) for registered teachers plus scholarships for interstate teachers toward travel/accommodation.
This flyer has more details of the program. To register your interest, please email ASAP to reserve the tuition fee waiver spots.
Return to top
4. Seeking a Physics teacher? Seeking a new position? 4 positions
There are three schools seeking a physics teacher.
The Job Ads page on Vicphysics website is updated every weekend. The webpage also has a link on how schools can register a position and lodge a payment for this service.
- University High School (2 positions, close 7th July)
- Mortlake P - 12 College (closes 6th July)
- Mansfield Secondary College (closes 20th July)
Some Open Access articles from the IOP journal Physics Education. These are articles that the author(s) have decided to share with anyone. The full list (340) can be accessed here.
Return to top
|
|
Copyright © 2024, VicphysicsTeachers' Network Inc. All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is: PO Box 290, Flinders Lane VIC 8009
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list
|
|
|
|
