Australia’s best loved scientist coming to Ecofiesta

The country’s best known and most charismatic scientist is coming to town as a special guest of Cairns Ecofiesta 2024.

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki – better known as simply Dr Karl – is a qualified scientist, doctor and engineer, who is best known for his fun-loving quirky approach to helping people of all ages understand science.

Munro Martin Parklands will come alive with a vibrant array of activity for Cairns Ecofiesta on Sunday 2 June.

As Queensland’s premier sustainability festival, running since 2005, the Ecofiesta highlights the region's commitment to environmental conservation, community and climate action.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest, Ecofiesta offers an opportunity for individuals, families, community groups and businesses, to be inspired and leave with new skills for a lighter impact on this important environment.

This year’s theme is Reef Resilience and Climate Action, with an added emphasis on how we can work together to help protect the Great Barrier Reef.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about innovative conservation efforts, the net zero transition and sustainable living.

A highlight of the event will be a panel with Dr Karl and David Wachenfeld, lead scientist of the Australian Institute of Marine Science, with questions about climate change and the Great Barrier Reef, along with a Reef Resilience expo.

Mayor Amy Eden said having the nation’s most beloved science commentator attend Ecofiesta was a major coup for the event and the city.

“For more than four decades, Dr Karl has been talking about science on the radio, and in that time, he has instilled a love of science and a thirst for knowledge in millions of people of all ages,” Cr Eden said.

“Well known for his colourful shirts, and even more for his ability to take complex scientific concepts and put it into language that everyone can easily understand – to have Dr Karl at Ecofiesta is hugely exciting.

“He’s engaging and funny and I’m sure they’ll be thousands of people keen to be part of the session to have burning questions answered.”

Ecofiesta will also offer hands-on workshops on topics like making the most of solar at home, composting and bicycle maintenance. With a diverse line-up of performance, food vendors, and family-friendly activities – there is something for everyone.

Discover the latest in clean technology, electric vehicles, engage with experts in the net-zero transition and explore market stalls offering sustainable living solutions.

“Join us as we come together to celebrate our rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainability,” Cr Eden said.

Ecofiesta will be on Sunday 2 June, from 10am to 6pm, at Munro Martin Parklands and is free to attend.

The Reef Resilience Showcase is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

Cairns Ecofiesta 2024 is sponsored by the Queensland Government as part of Queensland Day celebrations.

(Dr Karl Kruszelnicki appears by arrangement with Claxton Speakers International.)

Call for Event Volunteers and Stallholders:

Ecofiesta is calling out to passionate individuals to join us as event volunteers. Stallholder applications are also open to showcase community and business sustainability initiatives.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a community-driven event dedicated to creating positive change.