Wondrous Woodlands by Dr Rachel Standish

Let us invite you for a get-together with Nature-Enthusiasts where you will learn insights about Eucalypt woodland studied by our Murdoch Researcher Dr Rachel Standish.

The wheatbelt of south-western Australia is home to pockets of remarkable and unique eucalypt woodlands. At times underappreciated for being so very different to forests and woodlands in the ‘mother country’, the grey-green, dry and crunchy woodlands have slowly worked their way into the hearts and minds of generations of farmers with whom they share the landscape. Indeed, the recent addition of wheatbelt woodlands to the list of critically endangered ecological communities (Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) is recognition of their significant cultural and ecological values, and marks an important milestone in their conservation.

Yet, has the listing come too late? The woodlands are in decline and there is limited understanding of how to intervene to promote their restoration. Dr Rachel Standish, a Senior Lecturer in Ecology at Murdoch University, will explore this question using examples from her research on abandoned farmlands, degraded woodlands and restored old-fields.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME: We will start with Show & Tell at 7:45pm before Dr Rachel’s presentation at 8:00pm. Healthy snacks & cuppa will be provided to support conversation after the presentation. $3 door fee will buy you a raffle ticket that can win you something special :)