Once overlooked, fungi are the exhilarating new poster organisms that are reconfiguring our understanding of the natural world and capturing the public imagination.

Although little known, the roots of almost every plant in the Australian landscape are intimately entwined with fungi. These clandestine relationships extend beyond trees to include every orchid and most shrubs and grasses. Symbioses are the secret to success in our highly variable climate and nutrient-deficient soils. Fungi are also the creators of hollows that are vital habitat to gliders and myriad other organisms.

The workshop begins with the opportunity to explore a specimen table of mushrooms and other fungus resources. This is followed by an interactive seminar where Alison will share insights from over three decades spent in the field among fungi. We’ll then take a closer look at your collected fungus specimens, and you’ll learn the basics of how to identify them.

We’ll conclude with a light supper and the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Alison’s books.

This workshop is part of a Land for Wildlife series of talks coordinated by K2W Link as part of the Cores, Corridors and Koalas, a partnership between the Great Eastern Ranges and WWF-Australia.

BIO

Dr Alison Pouliot is an ecologist and professional environmental photographer with a focus on fungi. Her work spans northern and southern hemispheres ensuring two autumns and a double dose of fungi each year. Alison is actively involved in teaching, research and conservation, but you’re most likely to find her in the undergrowth among the fungi. Alison is author of The Allure of Fungi, Wild Mushrooming, Underground Lovers, Meetings with Remarkable Mushrooms, Funga Obscura and Mushroom Day (in press).www.alisonpouliot.com