Free event to uncover our local orchids

Locals can learn about the wonders of our endemic orchids at the latest free event as part of Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s Friends of Wooditjup Bilya program.

Free registrations are open for the event from 9.30am-12.30pm on Thursday, November 7, coinciding with Australian Pollinator Week.

It’ll feature a one hour guided walk with Wildflower Society of WA expert Brian Trainer near the Margaret River, and then participants will have the chance to get their hands dirty with revegetation work to promote orchid regeneration.

Following a career in the medical field, Mr Trainer has been immersed in orchid conservation with a focus on the Capes region, working with Kings Park, the Adopt an Orchid Project and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to protect threatened and priority orchids.

Program coordinator Lauren Scanlon said the event would “take a deep dive into our incredible orchids, their uniqueness, their character, sexual deception for pollinators and most importantly how to promote their protection, enhancement, and create the best conditions for orchid regeneration in conservation”.

The program has been funded for a second year thanks to the Shire’s Environmental Management Fund. Held on the first Thursday of the month, events include a different guided excursion followed by hands-on conservation work so volunteers can help make a real difference.

“Head to natureconservation.org.au to reserve your free spot to the event, which promises to be a fascinating one on orchids. You can also purchase copies of Jane Scott’s wildflower books, and one free signed book goes to the first new volunteer to sign up,” Lauren said.