We are Switched on to Science!

We were all at the Redlands Coast Museum today

We’ve just returned from a fantastic day at the ‘Switch On to Science’ event at the Redlands Coast Museum—and we’re pleased to say it was a real success.

Although the museum officially opened at 10 AM, we had visitors at our stand from the moment the doors opened, and the following few hours were a steady flow of interest and activity. Thankfully, we were well supported by a great team of volunteers: Bill VK4BUL, John VK4JBE, Peter VK4VY, Eddie VK4TJE, and Bob VK4YA.

The young visitors in particular were fascinated by the range of exhibits we brought along, including:

• CubeSat replicas showing real-time telemetry, alongside SDR decoders displaying live images transmitted over-the-air via slow scan TV.
• An oscilloscope visualising the envelope of voice and CW signals.
• Practice Morse keys and trainers, including a paddle key for hands-on learning.
• Crystal sets, kindly provided by the museum.
• A selection of antique radios and amateur transceivers, sparking lots of curiosity and conversation.

We all know that it’s vital for children to be given the opportunity to explore and engage with science from an early age—not just to spark curiosity, but to help them understand the world around them and their place in it. Science encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving—all essential skills for the future. BDARS, as a committed part of the community, recognises that it’s our responsibility to introduce young minds to the wonders of science—to inspire the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and caretakers of our planet.

A special thank you goes to the BDARS team, led by Eddie, with invaluable help from Bill, John, Peter, and Bob. This year’s event was noticeably bigger and busier than last year’s, and we’re already looking forward to the opportunity to be involved again next year.

A big thank you also goes to the Redlands Coast Museum team, especially Ross and Doug, for the kind invitation and for making the space available for our display. And of course, we can’t forget the wonderful volunteer caterers, who kept everyone going with much-needed coffee, sandwiches, and a steady supply of delicious snags.