Let's get quizzical: National Science Quiz

By  Jessica Hildyard 9 August 2024 4 min read

This year's National Science Quiz 2024 promises a delightful journey into the brilliant world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

We have two inspiring individuals to guide us through this scientific adventure this year. Nate Byrne is the weather presenter on ABC News Breakfast and a Bureau of Meteorology trained meteorologist. Rachel Rayner is a science communicator working with our Space and Astronomy team.

Nate has been a contestant twice before, so he’s excited to step into his new role of Quiz host. Rachel, a first-time team captain for the Quiz, is looking forward to the experience.

"As a first-time team captain, I'm looking forward to drawing on the strengths of the team and having a whole lot of fun. These events are always a chance to laugh and learn. The joy is, if we didn’t get an answer right, then we learnt something new – win-win!" Rachel says.

Rachel and Nate have both shared their joyful journeys into STEM professions, offering advice for the next generation of curious kids.

Science communications to the stars

Rachel Rayner is a science communicator and comedian. Her diverse interests led her to a career in STEM, making her an inspiring figure for curious minds.

"The best thing about STEM is that it truly is for anyone... the most important thing is to be curious," Rachel says.

At university, she explored a range of subjects, from art and languages to physics and mathematics. Discovering science communication allowed Rachel to combine all her passions and continuously learn new things.

"I’ve done science communications work on solar energy, nutrition, bioluminescence and now, my favourite, astronomy," Rachel says.

Rachel's enthusiasm for science stems from its ability to create something new and unexpected. She says working in STEM provides a broader perspective of our universe and an appreciation of its beauty and complexity.

“When science meets with engineering to create something new and unexpected – how exciting is that? When you get people of different disciplines in a room and just see the new ideas spring to life… it is magic," Rachel says.

Combining art and science

Rachel is also an advocate for adding Arts to STEM, making it STEAM.

"I'm absolutely Team STEAM. Science and arts are both ways to explore our world and ask questions about our experiences in it," Rachel says.

"I love to make art with physics as my inspiration. I’ve spoken on the joys of science poetry around the world (I’m even a co-author on a paper on the subject!) and love seeing what happens when the disciplines blend."

When addressing young people, who may not see themselves in a STEM career, Rachel encourages them to explore their interests from every angle.

"There will be a science connection in there somewhere! Science is so diverse, so everywhere, and really involves everyone," Rachel says.

"Understanding the science behind things doesn’t diminish their magic but rather enhances their wonder. Even though I know a sunset is caused by the light being scattered by a thicker atmosphere, it doesn’t change how beautiful it is."

Curiosity in science careers

Nate Byrne, known for his role on ABC News Breakfast, shares a similar passion for curiosity and learning. Nate’s journey in STEM began with a love of magic, which later transformed into a fascination with science.

"I actually wanted to be a magician! But then I realised that it wasn’t magic at all, just tricks," Nate says.

As well as magic, I thought being able to fly would be the best thing, so I decided instead of magic tricks, I could try and invent a rocket pack. Naturally, science would be the best way to learn how to do that!"

With this childhood curiosity still in his mind, Nate went to study computer science and physics at university.

"My Dad was a teacher, so he did have an influence on me going on to study. But I think it was more than that," he says.

Nate believes in following one's passions wholeheartedly, and says curiosity is key.

"Nothing ever went wrong by staying curious and wanting to learn more. I really believe that when you find the thing you love, follow that with 100 per cent of your heart," Nate says. 

"And if it’s lots of things, like me, that’s totally okay too. There’s always time to learn something new and there’s nothing wrong with thinking broadly."

Our National Science Quiz

The annual National Science Quiz started in Australia nine years ago, put together by a group of volunteers and sponsors from universities and research institutions including CSIRO.

Aimed at ages 8-14, the Quiz can be played by classes and families alike during National Science Week and will remain open for play until 2025. Questions have been written by our experts at Double Helix, the science magazine for kids.