Maitland Regional Museum aims to be an innovative centre in the Maitland region offering experimental and static exhibitions with activities across natural and human history, science and creative arts.

Sami Bayly is a natural history illustrator based in Newcastle, who loves all things weird and wonderful. She finds the beauty and importance of all animals regardless of their appearance, and hopes to share her appreciation with others. After recently completing her University degree, she has just released her first children's book, "The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals" which celebrates the beauty in ugliness.

Children's University Australasia is a broader than curriculum program that encourages a love of learning through fostering curiosity and linking families with knowledge holders in their local, regional and national communities.

The University of Newcastle Faculty of Science is a world-class centre for scientific and technology research and innovation. Through our strong discipline-based research and active inter-disciplinary engagement, both nationally and internationally, we are at the forefront of research and development in a broad range of fields. Our research strengths lie in the key areas of industry and infrastructure, sustainability and the environment, and health and wellbeing. Our Faculty is made up of 4 schools that push for excellence in all areas and have contributed to the University being ranked in the top 250 universities in the world*. *QS World University Rankings 2016

The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.

The Hunter Region Botanic Gardens is a not for profit organisation run by volunteers that showcases a wide variety of native and other plant communities in a 133-hectare bushland setting at Heatherbrae.

HEDG formed in 2008 with the aim to increase the interaction between geoscientists in the lower Hunter Valley, promote geoscience, provide a platform to learn about current research, and enable student and professional networking. HEDG is organised by the Geological Society of Australia (GSA), Hunter Valley Branch and the Geological Survey of NSW (Department of Regional NSW). GSA (NSW Division) contributes funding.

Geological Society of Australia (GSA), Hunter Valley Branch provides an opportunity to keep in touch with geoscientific developments, present the results of work, and contribute to discussions on vocational and scientific topics

The Geological Survey of NSW (GSNSW) is part of the NSW Department of Industry and is the oldest agency in NSW Government, being continuously active since 1875. GSNSW collects and manages geological, geophysical, geochemical and geospatial data to inform government, the resource industry and community about the state's geology, and mineral, coal, petroleum and renewable energy resources. It also promotes the safe and sustainable development of mineral and energy resources for the benefit of all NSW citizens.