Melbourne

Past

A Taster Of Basic Mandarin

What’s it all about? Looking for the next step beyond Ni Hao? Then ‘A Bit of Basic Mandarin’ may be right up your hutong! Whether you’ve been to China before or not, you might be looking for a very simple introductory/familiarisation course before you plunge into the language in earnest. There are many aspects of …

Past

An Introduction to Lomography

What’s it all about? On the one hand, analogue photography is traditional; it’s got an amazing history which stretches back a couple of hundred years. But film photography also opens up all kinds of real-time experimental possibilities; you can use techniques such as multiple exposures, sprocket-hole photography and cross-processing to get artistic and beautiful effects. …

Past

Urban Beekeeping

What’s it all about? The world needs bees. They are vital for pollinating flowers and crops (as well as providing us with delicious honey), but today they face a number of threats. In this workshop, we will learn about bees and their behaviour, and explore what is involved in keeping bees in suburban Melbourne. What …

Past

The Science of Roller Coasters

What’s it all about? Who invented the first roller coaster and why did they think it was a good idea? Nowadays no visit to a theme park would be complete without a ride on a roller coaster. Since the first “Scenic Gravity Railroad” in 1827, hundreds have been built all over the world, ranging from …

Past

Aerodynamics – I Believe I Can Fly

What’s it all about? From something as simple as dimples on a golf ball, to the complex atmospheric re-entry of the space shuttle, aerodynamics is pivotal to almost every activity humans are involved in. Discover the fascinating world of aerodynamics, the science underpinning it, and the wide array of phenomena it can explain and predict. …

Past

Cryptic Crosswords

What’s it all about? Glory in the English language by dipping your toe into the refreshingly joyous art of the cryptic crossword. Cryptic crosswords work by playing with the multiple meanings of words and deftly recasting them to form cunning linguistic designs. Every nook and cranny of the English language and world culture is welcome …

Past

Tea!

What’s it all about? Ever had a horrible bitter green tea? Confused by the difference between oolongs, green and black tea? Wondering where tea even comes from? (Hint: ‘a tea-bag’ is the not the right answer) This class will clarify some tea-myths and give some tips on how to avoid face-scrunching green tea experiences. What …