Sundowner series brings conservation experts together at Margaret River Heart

Nature lovers will have the chance to learn the latest on wildlife conservation at a talk coming to Margaret River.

Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s environmental sundowner series will bring three acclaimed experts to town next week.

Leading the talk is senior wildlife ecologist Sophia Callander, backed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ Blackwood district conservation manager Clare Forward and ReWild Perth program manager Hannah Gulliver.

Dr Callander from the Australian Wildlife Conservancy will lead the talk at the Nala Bardip Mia on Tuesday, February 25 to explore innovation in the field of protecting native animals and environments.

The scientist’s seminar is called Not the End of the World: Conservation in Action.

It focuses on Dr Callander’s behind-the-scenes work at Mt Gibson Wildlife Sanctuary near the wheatbelt where chudditches, quoll and brushtail possums have been released successfully despite the risk of foxes and feral cats.

The operators are deploying artificial intelligence to identify species after training on feral animal monitoring footage.

The technology is also being used to estimate population densities and co-ordinate with drone systems to monitor multiple animals, track their survival and how they disperse.

Ms Gulliver is a passionate advocate for nature who will share insights and practical steps to bring greener practices into home gardens.

Ms Forward’s talk will give an overview of the region’s most vulnerable species, where they are at, and what is being done to help them.

Nature Conservation general manager Drew McKenzie said the seminar would provide relief for people often bombarded with bad news stories about the environment.

“Our next sundowner is the perfect opportunity to look at some of the wins – both locally and further afield – to celebrate significant impact and see what we can learn from what’s happening elsewhere,” he said.

The sundowner starts at 6pm and tickets can be booked through www.natureconservation.org.au.