Eucalypt Identification Course 2026 - South - 12 November 2026

NOTE: this course is on the same day as the Southern FPO Refresher Course. Please register for the course on Fri 13 if you are an FPO in the South.

Build confidence in identifying Tasmania’s eucalypts with expert guidance, hands‑on practice, and real‑world field experience. 
This practical, one‑day course equips you with the skills, tools and confidence to accurately identify Tasmanian eucalypts, including commonly confused and conservation‑significant species, using standard identification keys.

Why attend this course?

Eucalypt identification can be challenging, particularly when dealing with subtle variation, hybrids, or species with planning and conservation implications. This course focuses on how to identify eucalypts in practice, not just in theory.

You’ll spend the day:

• Working through the Tasmanian Eucalyptus key step‑by‑step

• Looking at both fresh and dried specimens, including rare and easily confused species

• Learning expert tips, pitfalls and decision‑making processes

• Applying your skills in the field, where real‑world variation comes into play

Feedback from previous Eucalypt Identification courses

“Excellent, practical course. The presenters’ experience and explanations were outstanding, and learning that even experts can be challenged in the field was reassuring and very useful.”

“Lots of time to practice using the key with real samples. Working through it together, then in groups and individually, really built confidence.”

“Seeing fresh and dried specimens side‑by‑side and comparing similar species was incredibly valuable. Understanding the subtle differences and common pitfalls was a highlight.”

Course overview

This one‑day training course provides a comprehensive introduction to Tasmanian eucalypt identification.

Participants will be introduced to:

• The Eucalyptus genus and key morphological features

• Essential terminology used in identification keys

• The practical use of dichotomous keys and supporting resources

A key emphasis of the course is learning to distinguish between commonly confused species, particularly those with conservation or planning implications , and understanding how these distinctions feed into vegetation community identification and mapping.

Course structure

Morning: Classroom & specimen‑based learning

• Theory and terminology explained clearly and practically

• Guided, hands‑on practice using the Tasmanian eucalyptus key

• Fresh and dried specimens provided, including rare and tricky species

Afternoon: Field application

• Apply newly gained skills at selected field sites

• Learn how to key out species under real‑world conditions

• Observe natural variation, habitat context and identifying features in situ

The course is delivered by specialist botanists with extensive experience in Tasmanian eucalypts, both in the classroom and in the field.

Who is this course for?

This course caters for the absolute beginner to the more expert botanist or forestry worker wishing to learn more.

It will also be useful for any environmental professional or interested person wanting to gain Eucalypt identification skills, especially those involved in the mapping and management of vegetation communities in Tasmania.

No previous experience with eucalypts or identification keys is required.

What you’ll receive

• Tasmanian Eucalypt identification key

• Eucaflip

• Key terminology cheat sheet (with diagrams)

• Expert instruction from experienced botanists

• Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea

Transportation & site access

Participants will need access to a vehicle, as the course involves visiting multiple field sites.

• Car‑pooling is strongly encouraged due to limited parking

• Car‑pooling can be arranged from the starting location

• Limited places may be available in FPA vehicles

What to bring

• Pen/pencil and notebook

• Sturdy walking footwear

• Wet weather clothing

• Sunscreen

• Helmet/hard hat

• Drink bottle

Limited spare equipment will be available.

Course fee (inc. GST and Humanitix fees)

• Forest practices system workers: $380 ($15 Earlybird discount available before 31st August)

• Non‑forest practices system workers: $490 ($15 Earlybird discount available before 31st August)

The fee covers course materials, delivery by FPA staff and consultant specialists, field instruction, and catering.Online ticket payments are required as unfortunately we are not able to issue invoices for this course.

Medical conditions & allergies

This course includes a supervised field trip with identified hazards and risk management processes in place. During registration, participants will be asked to disclose any medical conditions or allergies (e.g. jack jumper allergy) that may impact participation. All information is treated confidentially and managed in accordance with personal information legislation.