Sydney Festival of Geosciences

160 Years of Geosciences at the University of Sydney

In 2026, the School of Geosciences celebrates a remarkable milestone: 160 years since geosciences were first taught at the University of Sydney. From early expeditions across Antarctica to the ocean floors of the Indo-Pacific, from building submarines that explored the Great Barrier Reef to tracking coasts and reef marine environments and their response to major changes over decades, from the study of deep geological time to the urgent questions of climate, environment, and sustainability, from human geography's insights into people and place to long partnerships with First Nations communities whose knowledge of Country stretches back tens of thousands of years, the School has shaped how we understand our planet, and the people who have passed through it have gone on to shape the world.

We're marking this milestone with the Sydney Festival of Geosciences, and we'd love for you to be part of it. Whether you're an alumna or alumnus, a former staff member, or simply part of our wider geoscience community, whether you graduated last year or five decades ago, and whether you went on to work in industry, academia, government, or somewhere entirely unexpected, your story is part of this history.

And this invitation isn't limited to those with a University of Sydney or geoscience background. The Festival is open to everyone: families, school students, teachers, careers advisors, and anyone curious about the Earth and its history is warmly welcome, no prior connection needed.

The Festival runs across several days in spring, with something for everyone: student conference sessions, public talks on perspectives on time and space, and Sydney's geological and geomorphological evolution, a field trip open to all, and a symposium and celebratory evening with canapes and drinks. You're welcome to come along to just one event, several, or the whole program, whatever suits you.

This form takes just a few minutes to complete. It will help us plan the program, understand who's coming, and make sure the event reflects the full breadth and diversity of our community. More details about the program will be shared in the coming months. Registering your interest now ensures you'll be among the first to hear.