Experts look at our biodiversity from all angles

Nesting box expert, wildlife guru and author Simon Cherriman will feature at Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s next Environmental Sundowner.

The Good, the Bad the Ugly will be held at Margaret River HEART on Thursday, May 8 from 6.15pm-8.30pm, with three expert speakers followed by an audience Q&A.

The evening will take locals on a deep dive into how good it is to live in a ‘global biodiversity hotspot’, and how the term can be a double-edged sword, with our unique biodiversity vulnerable to the “bad” and the “ugly” including invasive species, climate change and other human impacts.

“The evening promises to be a fascinating one for anyone who wants to learn more about the special nature of the Margaret River region, with a focus on our unique ecological ecosystems and why invasive species can thrive in this landscape,” Nature Conservation event organiser Jodie Passmore said.

Already confirmed as one of the speakers is Cherriman, is an award-winning Australian ornithologist, filmmaker, and author passionate about wildlife conservation. Best known for his book Hollowed Out, he is a leading advocate for nest boxes as vital habitats for hollow-dependent species.

Cherriman’s expertise in ecology and hands-on conservation inspires communities to protect native birds and animals. And his work blends science with storytelling, making complex environmental issues accessible and engaging to highlight the importance of preserving natural tree hollows while promoting sustainable alternatives.

Joining him will be plant biologist and UWA Professor Hans Lambers, author of more than 600 papers. Professor Lambers has studied the evolutionary survival techniques of thousands of native WA species; has an international reputation for his work on plant respiration, nutrition, growth, productivity and plant-soil interactions; and he established the Kwongan Foundation to improve conservation strategies for endangered plants.

He’ll discuss the double-edged sword of why our region is so incredibly biodiverse but why it is also vulnerable to invaders.

Meanwhile, Nature Conservation’s Arum Lily Blitz team including biodiversity officer Obelia Walker and bush regenerator Rick Ensley will discuss why arum lilies are an “ugly” species, the impacts of this invasive species, and some of the successes in controlling it.

The sundowner is the 11th in Nature Conservation’s series, made possible thanks to support from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River and the Margaret River Wine Association.

Tickets are $15 for Nature Conservation members and $25 for non-members including a free drink and canapes. Book at natureconservation.org.au/events