Do you keep a diary? Maybe you document what you did, how you felt, or even what the weather was like. Imagine if, in 200 years, someone used your diary to recreate the weather you experienced! In this masterclass we will explore the good, bad and ugly of Australia’s weather history, and explain how dusty old diaries (maybe like yours!) can help us prepare for a hotter and more extreme future.

The Science Festival Midafternoon Masterclass series is a series of five, 45-minute lectures showcasing up-and-coming scientists and their groundbreaking discoveries. The Masterclasses are online, and will include interactive scientific explanations, experiments, live demonstrations, virtual lab tours, and lots of fun!

Each unique masterclass has been designed to be accessible and appealing to all audiences and is suitable for anyone with a high school scientific understanding. Get your questions ready as our scientists would love the audience to join in the live Q&A and become a part of the presentation.

Linden Ashcroft is a lecturer in climate science and science communication. Her career has included a stint at the Bureau of Meteorology and managing a national citizen science project. Her research uncovers pre-1900 documents and weather observations to improve understanding of Australia’s past climate so we can better plan for the future.