Far East Gippsland is home to an exceptional concentration of scientific expertise,
with highly skilled local residents leading
the way in marine science, plant ecology, mycology, ornithology, herpetology and environmental monitoring.
In recent weeks, local Landcare groups have celebrated this depth of knowledge through a series of well-attended community presentations, tours and citizen-science activities.
Nearly 40 community members and Jarrahmond Landcare participants attended two recent presentations at the Orbost Arts Centre:
– Beware Reef – presented by Holly Baird
Featuring spectacular images and videos from the Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary,
this presentation showcased local marine species and explored how changing ocean currents are influencing the region’s underwater environments.
– Birds and More – presented by Rob Clay
A visually rich session highlighting local
bird species and the importance of keeping dogs on leads at local beaches to protect critically endangered and declining beach-
nesting birds.
Rob also discussed the impact of ingested rubbish on many migratory bird species.
Landcare has prepared videos of these presentations for anyone who missed the events.
These are available on the Far East Victoria Landcare website.
Additional activities across the district included:
– A guided tour of the Orbost Rainforest Centre, introducing participants to the unique local rainforest ecosystem. The event
was hosted in partnership with Wilderness Coast Artists.
– Marlo Landcare’s Endangered Mammal Field Day on the Marlo Plains, where
trail cameras are being used to monitor threatened species.
– A presentation by Dr Kevin R. Thiele, Director of Taxonomy Australia and adjunct associate professor, attended by 40 local residents.
– Snowy West Landcare tour of Firewise Garden at Sailors Grave Brewery
More events are planned in the coming months, including Cann Valley Landcare’s end-of-year celebration and an upcoming Goongerah Landcare presentation on
local reptiles.
Landcare continues to strengthen community connection by bringing together scientific expertise, local knowledge and a shared commitment to caring for the environment.
Landcare representative Josh Puglisi said the recent series of events demonstrates how much skill and passion exists within the region.
“Obviously our beautiful landscapes have influenced the calibre of people who call this area home. We live within, and depend on, nature’s services, and it’s critical we remain aware of the changes occurring around us,” he said.
