Join us for a special screening on Wednesday 12 August, 7-9pm of the extended cut of Forest Country followed by a presentation and panel discussion with leading fire behaviour scientist Adjunct Associate Professor Dr Philip Zylstra.

Forest Country by filmmaker Lewi Haskins explores the impacts facing local forests and the growing community concern across the region. Filmed over the course of a year alongside activists, conservationists and ecologists, the documentary bears witness to the ongoing pressures on native ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and the deep connection communities have to these forests.

This special extended cut of Forest Country includes new footage and additional interviews.

Following the film, Dr Philip Zylstra will present current research on planned burning, forest disturbance and bushfire risk. Research shows that broadscale planned burning is not only damaging to climate, human health and the environment, but is also ineffective in reducing extreme bushfire risk. Studies have also shown that the flush of shrubs that follows prescribed burning can increase long-term fire severity.

Dr Zylstra will discuss forest disturbance, proposed roadside ‘fuel breaks’, and opportunities to better minimise fire risk and fire severity while protecting forests and communities.

Following the presentation, filmmaker Lewi Haskins and Warburton Environment President Nic Fox will join Dr Zylstra for a panel discussion exploring forest protection, fire management and community action.

A supper is included in the ticket price and will be served after the panel.

Ticket types - we have a sliding scale and one ticket type includes The Great Forest Book.

NB# Tickets are general admission and are not allocated to specific seats.

We want everyone to feel welcome.
If cost is a barrier, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’ve set aside a number of tickets for community members experiencing financial hardship. This event is for everyone, and we’re committed to making it as accessible and inclusive as possible. Please send us a message.

Event hosts Nillumbik Friends of the Great Forest, Lewi Haskins & Warburton Environment respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People as the Traditional Owners of the lands on which this event takes place.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Dr Philip Zylstra came to bushfire research from a background in fire management and remote area firefighting. Since that time he has developed the first and only peer-reviewed fire behaviour model for Australian forests outside of West Australian jarrah.

His work focuses on understanding the ways that our interaction with forests affects fire risk. Using fire history analysis and state-of-the-art modelling, Dr Zylstra’s work reconciles deep knowledge from First Peoples with forest ecology and a complex understanding of fire behaviour to provide critically-needed guidance in fire management.

Event supported by Patagonia

Contact the host of The Hurstbridge Hub: Forest Country Screening & Fire Science with A/Prof Philip Zylstra