Cosmic experience lands at QVMAG on May the fourth

This weekend, QVMAG is set to welcome the Return of the QVMadness, an annual sci-fi takeover of the Museum at Inveresk, with a stellar lineup of activities for visitors of all ages.

From a Sci-lent Disco, a Cosplay costume competition, Sci-Fi themed portrait drawings, a board game zone, a Planetarium talk about the search for life beyond Earth, space-themed photo stations and space 'craft' sessions to an action-packed showdown by the Tasmanian Litesabre Alliance, the Museum will be a galaxy of fun for everyone.

Sunday 4 May is Star Wars Day, celebrated around the world by fans of the cinema saga. The saying 'May the force (or 'fourth') be with you' comes from the original 1977 George Lucas movie.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said QVMadness is a brilliant way to celebrate an iconic date in cinematic history.

"This is a great day for fans of all things space and science fiction," Mayor Garwood said.

''I encourage everyone to dress up, have fun and make the most of the intergalactic line up of activities and programs at the Museum at Inveresk on Sunday."

The Return of the QVMadness program includes:

- Sci-lent disco — Tear up the dancefloor with your best dance moves - we’ll supply the headphones and out-of-this-world tracks. 11am to 1pm. Free activity.

- Sci-Fi caricature portraits — Launceston artist Ben Winwood will be sketching otherworldly portraits as part of the QVMadness celebrations. 11am to 1pm. Free, on a first come, first served basis.

- Cosplay Competition — Come dressed as your favourite sci-fi or fantasy character (or make one onsite) for the chance to win amazing prizes. 1.30 to 3pm. Register online or on the day. Free activity.

- Where is everyone? — QVMAG Astronomer Chris Arkless will host an exclusive talk in the Planetarium about the search for intelligent life in the universe. 11.30am to 12.15pm. Ticketed session.

- Game Hub 3000 — Enjoy classic board game favourites and discover new intergalactic challenges alongside fellow travellers. 11am to 3pm. Free activity.

QVMAG Director Shane Fitzgerald said QVMadness has become a popular annual event for the Northern Tasmanian community.

"Our team has had a lot of fun putting this program together," Fitzgerald said.

"It's always fantastic to see the creativity of our community shine in the Cosplay costume competition. And with May the Fourth falling on a Sunday this year, we're hoping even more people can join us for an out-of-this-world experience."

Return of the QVMadness: a Sci-Fi takeover of QVMAG will be held from 11am to 3pm on Sunday 4 May 2025 at the Museum at Inveresk (2 Invermay Road). Entry to the Museum is free. 

The full program line-up can be found at www.qvmag.tas.gov.au/events 

Issued 2 May 2025.