Drawing on Ecology

Join restoration ecologists and field naturalists Rebecca Rees and Nayt Housman from Merri Creek Management Committee's ecological restoration team, along with artist and facilitator Craig Burgess from Draw Plants Together, for Drawing on Ecology, a walking, talking drawing workshop in conversation with the Birrarung at Pound Bend, Warrandyte, on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country.

Enjoy a day outdoors in an inclusive and supportive environment while exploring new ways of connecting with nature through drawing and ecological observation.

During the workshop you'll:

• experiment with drawing techniques that encourage noticing, receptivity and connection with nature, guided by Craig

• learn about riparian ecology and ecological restoration from Rebecca and Nayt

• spend time walking, talking and observing the Birrarung in the company of fellow participants.

No experience with drawing or ecology is required. Just bring your curiosity.

About the facilitators

Rebecca Rees (she/her) studied botany and environmental geoscience and is a member of the ecological restoration team at Merri Creek Management Committee. Rebecca enjoys learning about natural science and is particularly interested in the ecological interactions that contribute to healthy, functioning ecosystems.

Nayt Housman (he/they) is a lifelong naturalist and restoration ecologist with Merri Creek Management Committee, with a background in art, photography and make-up. Nayt has a deep appreciation for local flora and believes ecosystems are as much a part of the community as the people who live alongside them.

Craig Burgess (he/him) is an artist and facilitator who has been leading Draw Plants Together workshops since 2023. His work brings together creativity, learning, ecological care and wellbeing. Craig also works at VINC Nursery.

• Most Riverfest events are free, and many have limited places with long waitlists. Please only book if you're confident you can attend, so others don't miss out. Bookings are limited to 2 tickets for smaller events and 4 tickets for larger events.
  

• Can't make it? Please cancel your ticket by opening your Humanitix confirmation email and selecting 'Manage Order'. Your place will then be released to someone on the waitlist. If you need assistance, contact us by email: riverfest@yarrariver.org.au
  

• Events will proceed unless severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances require a change. If this happens, registered participants will be notified by email.

Please note that access to Pound Bend is by car or public transport (plus a 20-minute walk). Car park may not be accessible for wheelchairs. The workshop involves a short walk over uneven ground.

We welcome people of all abilities. If you have any accessibility requirements or need assistance to participate, please contact us before the event so we can discuss how we can support your attendance.

Celebrate the Yarra, Birrarung at one of 70+ events hosted over three weeks from 27 September to 18 October. Whether you enjoy riverside walks, cleanups, creative workshops, wildlife spotting or paddling adventures, there's something for everyone at Riverfest. Riverfest is presented by Yarra Riverkeeper Association with thanks to our partners Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo collaboration and Water4Good. Check out the full Riverfest program here.

Yarra Riverkeeper Association acknowledges that the lands and waterways of the Yarra, Birrarung catchment, are the unceded territories of the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung and Bunurong Boonwurrung peoples. We pay respect to Traditional Owners, who have, and continue, to care for Country. We acknowledge that the river now called Yarra has always been known as the Birrarung by its custodians.