What’s Happening?
Townsville will host Bush Alchemy on Saturday 22 August as part of National Science Week 2026. The event will take place at Riverside Gardens Community Centre Hall, 55 Riverside Boulevard, Douglas.
Presented by On Country Craft Distillery, the session will feature owner and chief distiller Clair Ryder, a Wiradjuri woman. Senior Traditional Elder Uncle Rusty, Russell Butler, of the Bandjin and Warragamay peoples will join her.
The Townsville event forms one part of the wider National Science Week program across Australia.
Why It Matters
Ryder brings Traditional Knowledge together with modern chemistry and distilling techniques. The ingredients are ethically sourced with the blessing of Traditional Landowners.
During the session, participants can taste raw bushtucker before sampling those botanicals in spirits and food. This format links the plants’ cultural uses with their aromas, ecology and behaviour during distillation.
Local Impact
Townsville residents can hear directly from First Nations presenters while taking part in science through taste. The session brings Indigenous botany and modern distilling into one local community event.
On Country Craft Distillery is Australia’s only distillery owned and operated entirely by First Nations women. Inspiring Australia Queensland is supporting the event.
By the Numbers
- 90 minutes: Each guided session combines scientific discussion with tastings of raw ingredients, spirits and food.
- Two time slots: Attendees can choose 11am to 12.30pm or 1pm to 2.30pm.
- About 3 million people: Last year, people joined more than 2,500 registered National Science Week events and activities across Australia.
Zoom In
Native lemongrass offers a clear example of how genes can shape flavour perception. Once distilled into gin, it tastes like roses to some people and lemon to others.
Ryder will explain the chemistry behind native aromatics and the ecological significance of key species. She will also cover cultural knowledge that has guided their use for thousands of years.
Zoom Out
First held in 1997, National Science Week has grown into one of Australia’s largest festivals. The 2026 program runs from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 August.
Through events across the country, Australians can meet scientists, discuss major topics and take part in science. The festival also recognises science’s contribution to daily life.
That contribution spans safe food, fewer cancer deaths, smartphones and artificial intelligence. It also reaches beneath Antarctic ice floes and towards distant planets.
What To Look For Next?
Bush Alchemy is free, but bookings are essential and attendees must be at least 18 years old. Adults can reserve a place through the official event listing.
The venue has wheelchair access, although Auslan and a hearing loop are unavailable. Residents can check the National Science Week website for more events across the wider program.
