Published on: 29 November 2013



Year 9 Science students participated in practical activities and learnt about the role of the ChemCentre in the community recently. Three chemists from the centre’s emergency response group visited Christ Church as part of the School’s scientist-in-residence program for 2013.

Head of Chemistry Don Marshall said the chemists demonstrated a number of techniques used in the field for crisis and emergency response situations. “The scientists explained their role in responding to traffic accidents, chemical spills, illegal laboratories, explosives and other incidents involving dangerous chemicals,” he said.

The chemists demonstrated some safety and analysis techniques allowing boys to gain some hands-on experience. Activities included the identification of substances by odour, emergency response and safety techniques, sampling of noxious gases for laboratory analysis and chemical testing in a portable glove box.

Mr Marshall said the chemists’ experiences and stories highlighted the importance and relevance of science in everyday life. “It was an excellent presentation by the ChemCentre group and the Year 9 classes involved thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” he said.