Some of Australia's most isolated children living in remote areas of Australia received the science lesson of their lives in June and July 2009. 

Science teacher, Phill Higgins, better known to the children as "Phiggles The Flying Scientist", took to the skies in his ninth annual "hands on" science program to share the fun and logic of science with kids at remote stations in Queensland.

Phill, based in Churchill, Gippsland, covered more than 8,000km and visited 13 stations in central west Queensland and a small school in outback NSW, working with the Longreach School of Distance Education.

After teaching science at University for 32 years, Phill was looking for a way to share his knowledge and enjoyment of science to make a difference to young people.  A friend suggested that outback students wouldn't get much hands on science. Phill recognised an opportunity to help, got himself a pilot's licence and started the program.

Phill Higgins pictured.

"Students have a chance to experience the logical nature of science and many of them now include science and engineering as possible career options,"  Phill said. 

After funding the first two years of the program himself, Phill found that costs were increasing.  He approached Post to assist with mailing the science equipment to the stations.  Post willingly provided this help and has assisted with the postage for the last six years, along with other educational and delivery costs.

Including this year's tour, Phiggles has visited close to 1,300 children living in some of the most isolated areas in Australia and is delighted the program continues to go from strength to strength.  

This program complements a number of other education activities that Post is undertaking and links outback students to opportunities to enhance their learning skills.

Phill Higgins and his flying science program is sponsored by Australia Post.

View a video of Phill's outback visit.

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"The outback stations invite families from surrounding districts and there are children of all ages anxious to see a new face," explains Phill. Phill spends a couple of days at each location, the lessons are very interactive and relate to the children's own environment.

"Our children were enthralled and challenged by the activities conducted by Phiggles and his able assistant Mrs Phiggles. The practical 'hands on' nature of the demonstrations combined with Phill's encouragement and explanations allowed the children to explore, discover and extend their knowledge. It is fantastic that in spite of our isolated circumstances our children were able to access such a stimulating and valuable experience," said Ernie and Kylie Camp, Floraville Station (Qld).

Learn more about science from Phill's recent science roadshow. Read Phill's answers to some great science questions. 

Want to ask Phill a science question of your own? Send your science question to Phill. 

Phiggles Outback Tour Science Quiz