Rugby sport psychology meets VR; aerospace innovation
Here are the Queensland-based events and activities that were awarded grants from the Australian Government for National Science Week 2026 through the Inspiring Australia program.
- Brains and brawn: a virtual reality experience where the Toowoomba Clydesdales rugby players provide insights into sports psychology.
- A street‑style celebration of aerospace innovation on the Sunshine Coast.
More on each of these below.
National Science Week in Queensland is coordinated by Inspiring Australia Queensland. Visit their website: inspiringqld.com.au.
For general National Science Week media enquiries, contact scienceweek@scienceinpublic.com.au.
Brains, Boots & Beyond: Exploring Sports Psychology in VR
Grant recipient: Concinnity Consulting Pty Ltd
Step inside the brain of a professional rugby player as science and sport come together through an immersive virtual reality experience.
This project, presented by Concinnity in partnership with the Toowoomba Clydesdales rugby league club and the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), explores neuroscience, sports psychology, and wellbeing. Participants will learn how the brain manages focus, resilience, teamwork and recovery. Clydesdales players will act as guides in the VR, making science accessible, relatable and inspiring.
Cobb+Co Museum and UniSQ will host the installation with a public launch event and daily sessions. You’ll leave with an increased awareness of the importance of brain health and mental wellbeing to everyday life… and maybe even some footy tips!
Future Flight Science Fair: Clean Skies, Local Innovation
Grant recipient: Manufacturing Excellence Forum (Sunshine Coast) Limited
Imagine designing and 3D printing small glider, then sending it soaring through fog to get a real-time look at aerodynamics. That’s just one part of the Future Flight Science Fair: a lively street‑style celebration of aerospace innovation on the Sunshine Coast.
Hosted at Sunshine Coast Maker Space, the event invites families and curious minds to explore clean aviation technology through student-led exhibits, small-scale demo flights, and a VR journey inside a next-generation aircraft. The fair will showcase a locally developed electric vertical take-off and landing project, and highlight STEM career pathways and the role of science and manufacturing in building a sustainable community.
