The CSIRO Marine National Facility is committed to deepening the public’s understanding of marine and atmospheric research and its contribution to solving key challenges for Australia. We seek to make research accessible through appealing and creative storytelling showcasing our contribution, impact and value. Enter INVESTIGATE.
INVESTIGATE is a travelling outreach tool housed in a repurposed shipping container. Designed to inspire, engage and educate, INVESTIGATE is a dynamic, immersive experience encouraging users to explore Australia’s vast marine estate and the key role that marine research plays within it. As an avenue for the Australian public and students to engage in a contemporary way, INVESTIGATE tells the story of Australian marine research and its impact. It is an invitation to dive a little deeper.
With at‑sea operations taking RV Investigator to ports around Australia, INVESTIGATE is used alongside the vessel to create a hub for community engagement by capitalising on the invaluable tool that the vessel offers to capture people’s interest. INVESTIGATE also tours museums, educational facilities and events across the country.
Here we explore the rationale behind INVESTIGATE, detail the project’s lifecycle, and provide advice to others on the development of similar creative marine science outreach projects.