Branching Out: Spring Equinox Spotlighting at Mulligans Flat

Join ecologist and wildlife photographer David Cunningham on a spotlight walk in Mulligans Flat on the night of the Spring Equinox.

The spring equinox marks a day when there are roughly equal hours of daylight and darkness, and the turning point towards longer days and more daylight. Therefore, it is also the turning point for when children start saying they can't go to bed yet because it's still daytime.

The Eastern Quoll and Eastern Bettong are threatened species in the ACT. Once found throughout the region, they can now only be seen in the ACT at the predator-proof Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary. Mulligans Flat also protects the ACT’s largest remaining area of Box-Gum Grassy Woodland, a nationally threatened ecological community.

As we explore the sanctuary after dark, we may encounter other native fauna including microbats, moths and Tawny Frogmouths — and, if we’re very lucky, Krefft’s Gliders (previously known as Sugar Gliders).

Come along for an evening of exploring Mulligans Flat after dark — and you might just get to see some of these beautiful animals!

WALK DETAILS

• Date: Wednesday 23 September 2026

• Time: 6pm to 8pm

• Distance: approximately 6km

• Suitable for: ages 10+

MEETING LOCATION

• Mulligans Flat Playground in Forde, Justice Kelly Street

-35.16863549221052, 149.15153902578385

https://maps.app.goo.gl/x6aqfobVt5L99guB8

WHAT TO BRING/WEAR

• Long, warm pants and top

• Warm jacket

• Beanie and gloves

• Enclosed waterproof walking shoes/boots OR a spare pair of shoes and socks in your car.

• Water and snacks

• Torch (if you have one - doesn't have to be spotlight capable just bright enough so you can see where you are walking)

RESCHEDULING

If the forecast for the night is unsafe, or unpleasant enough that the walk won't be enjoyable, the walk will be rescheduled. If it's getting rescheduled registered people will be notified as soon as possible, and at least two hours before the meeting time.

MORE INFORMATION

About the walk: kelly.allison@conservationcouncil.org.au

David's photography: https://www.davidcunninghamwildlife.com/

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This walk was made possible with assistance from the ACT Government under the ACT Environmental Grants Program.