WRL Open Day 2025

Ever wanted to know why rips form in the surf? Or what happens to all the sand on the beach in a storm? What amount of water does it take for a car to float? How are dams, harbours and breakwalls designed? And how, exactly, do these things get tested anyway?…

Come tour our massive labs, meet the experts, and see engineering and science at work.

Based on Sydney’s Northern Beaches at Manly Vale, the UNSW Water Research Laboratory (WRL) is one of the biggest scientific and engineering facilities in Australia, tucked away below Manly Dam.

Our talented researchers solve all kinds of problems related to water and the environment. Our “laboratory” doesn’t have test tubes and lab coats; instead we build models of dams and harbours larger than your living room!

Come tour our massive labs, meet the experts, and see engineering and science at work.

All are welcome!