Native wildlife under the spotlight – literally
Wildlife conservation is at the forefront of the City’s NaturallyGC program this year, with interactive experiences educating participants and helping protect native species.
In a first for the coast, people can join officers as they setup and retrieve infrared fauna cameras, providing vital information on fauna movements.
“Our 2022/23 NaturallyGC program gives the community opportunities to connect, explore and conserve nature through hundreds of free or low-cost activities,” Mayor Tom Tate said.
“Our Citizen Science programs will get our community and kids involved in collecting valuable data from our infrared fauna cameras so we can help keep our wildlife safe.”
By understanding fauna movements and the types of species utilising our protected conservation areas, the City can better ensure their habitats remain protected.
The cameras can also pick up on invasive species such as foxes, which allow officers to notify the pest management team. There will be 14 cameras set around the coast, within various City-managed conservation parks.
Other NaturallyGC wildlife-themed activities include boat tours of the Broadwater onboard Hopo ferries learning about migratory birds and waterway animals.
There will also be opportunities to get up close with koalas and other native wildlife with Close Encounters workshops. This includes guided night spotlighting and an opportunity to explore the Botanic Gardens to see what the animals get up to after dark.
NaturallyGC activities are suited to all ages and abilities and include:
- Guided walks
- Field excursions
- Nature photography
- Education presentations
- Interactive workshops
- Festivals
- Film screenings
- Flora and fauna surveys
- Kids holiday programs
