AI, ethics and creativity; a small cartoon fish gets big screen debut
Here are the South Australia-based events and activities that were awarded grants from the Australian Government for National Science Week 2026 through the Inspiring Australia program.
- How will Artificial Intelligence affect human creativity, ethics and decision-making?
- ‘Porci’ the lovable porcupine fish and his animated marine mates brings the ocean to Capri Theatre.
More on each of these below.
National Science Week in South Australia is coordinated by Inspiring South Australia. Visit their website: inspiringsa.org.au.
For general National Science Week media enquiries, contact scienceweek@scienceinpublic.com.au.
Future Minds: Creativity and Ethics in the Age of AI
Grant recipient: Adelaide University
How will artificial intelligence affect human creativity, ethics and decision-making? This project is designed to kick off open, inclusive conversations about the good and the bad aspects of AI. Four Future Minds events at the University’s metropolitan and regional campuses at City West, Mawson Lakes, Mount Gambier, and Whyalla, will engage around 400 community members of different ages and backgrounds.
To extend this impact beyond the events, a short video will be produced and shared widely on social media, illustrating real-world local examples of AI driving scientific advancements. 200 students will also take part in interactive workshops, inviting them to experiment with AI through creativity challenges, scenario-based ethical dilemmas, and collaborative design tasks. Rather than focusing narrowly on technical programming, these sessions will highlight how AI can serve as a prompt for human imagination and critical thinking.
Little Scientists, Big Blue
Grant recipient: Marine Discovery Centre and Star of the Sea Catholic Parish Primary School Henley Beach
‘Porci’ the lovable porcupine fish and his animated marine mates are bringing the seas to the big screen, starting at the iconic Capri Theatre in Goodwood. Porci is the narrator and star of ‘Little Scientists, Big Blue’, a vibrant animated short film that invites children and their families to explore the wonders of our oceans through storytelling, music, and accessible science.
Porci takes viewers on an underwater journey through different marine ecosystems — from kelp forests, seagrass meadows, coral reefs and the deep sea — while weaving in scientific facts, playful humour, and cameo appearances from real Australian scientists represented in animation. The film reveals why our oceans matter, why marine science is vital, and how every child can be a scientist.
The Adelaide launch event at the Capri will combine the screening with a Welcome to Sea Country, science activities, VR reef dives, 3D beachcombing, art workshops, and a panel of leading marine scientists. The film will become available online, along with teaching resources.
