Celebrating Earth Science Week: Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future
The College of Engineering, Science and Environment (CESE) hosted a thought-provoking Earth Science Week event, Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future, bringing together students, researchers, and industry professionals to reflect on the critical role Earth Science plays in shaping our world.
The keynote address, Groundwater: Past, Present and Future, was delivered by Professor Craig Simmons FAA FTSE, Chief Scientist for South Australia and Pro Vice-Chancellor of CESE.
A globally recognised expert in groundwater and environmental science, Professor Simmons explored the challenges and opportunities surrounding one of Earth’s most critical and threatened resources.
His keynote highlighted the intersection of groundwater science with sustainability, resilience, and public policy.
“Earth Science Week is a powerful reminder of how Earth sciences shape our lives; from the water we drink to the energy we use” Professor Simmons said. “Events like this bring people together to explore how understanding our planet’s past can help us build a more sustainable and resilient future.”
Professor Simmons’ address was both informative and engaging, weaving scientific insight with humour and storytelling to captivate the audience. His presentation set the tone for a lively panel discussion that followed, where leading academics shared their perspectives on the future of Earth Science and its role in addressing global challenges.
The panel featured:
- Associate Professor Danielle Verdon-Kidd, Co-Director of the Centre for Integrated Resilience: Coasts, Water and Climate
- Dr Sara Polanco, Lecturer and Researcher in Earth Sciences
- Dr Brady Flinchum, Lecturer at the Newcastle Institute for Energy Resources (NIER) and Earth Sciences Discipline
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session and networking lunch, where attendees had the opportunity to connect with speakers and peers. Outside the theatre, the Earth Science discipline hosted a series of engaging displays showcasing fieldwork equipment, geological samples, drones, and interactive models - offering a hands-on glimpse into the tools and techniques shaping modern Earth Science.
The event drew a diverse audience, including academic staff, industry representatives, students and members of the local community – highlight the broad relevance and growing interest in Earth Science across sectors.
As the University continues to champion sustainability and innovation, Exploring the Past, Shaping the Future served as a timely reminder of the power of Earth Science to inform solutions and inspire action for a more resilient world.
About Earth Science Week
Earth Science Week is a global celebration held annually in October to promote awareness and appreciation of Earth Sciences. In Australia, it is supported by Geoscience Australia, which encourages communities, educators, and researchers to engage with Earth Science through events, resources, and outreach.
Earth Science Week aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and decision-makers by showcasing how geology, oceanography, soil science, and environmental science shape our lives and our future.
Acknowledgements
The College of Engineering, Science and Environment extends its sincere thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating Earth Science Week. We offer special appreciation to the Earth Science discipline for their ongoing leadership in research and community engagement, and to Professor Craig Simmons for his inspiring keynote and ongoing contributions to environmental science and education.
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Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.