From Weeds to Wildlife : Talking Conservation in the Hunter Wetlands for National Science Week

The Hunter Wetlands Centre is taking part in National Science Week 2025 with a morning of lively talks on conservation. With a focus on what's happening in our Ramsar-listed Hunter Estuary Wetlands, guest speakers Dr John Gould (UON) and Geoff Nicholls (HWCA) will be joining us to discuss research projects and invasive species management.

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Keeping the bells tolling: conservation management of the bell frog population on Kooragang Island‍

Speaker: Dr John Gould (University of Newcastle)
Time: 9.30am

On the Hunter River's Kooragang Island is a stable population of the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea). It is also the site of a research and conservation project focusing on understanding and conserving this endangered amphibian. Research Scientist, Dr John Gould, from the University of Newcastle, will discuss the projects aims and outcomes, the frog's population dynamics, habitat preferences, and the Chytrid Fungus -one of the largest threats to the species.

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Wetlands Weed ID Workshop‍

Speaker: Geoff Nicholls (Hunter Wetlands Centre)
Time: 10.30am

Weeds and other invasive species undermine the success of conservation projects by competing with native plants and disrupting the ecological balance. Even in places where land has been saved from development or destruction, weeds remain a major threat to habitat and the wildlife that live there. Horticulturalist and HWCA Bush Regeneration team leader, Geoff Nicholls, will be presenting this Weed ID Workshop. You will learn about the common weeds found in the Hunter Estuary, how to distinguish them from native species, the issues they can cause if left unmanaged and how to effectively remove and dispose of them.

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Event Ticket includes: both of the talks, morning tea and an optional guided walk in our grounds.

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When: Thursday 14 August from 9.30am - 12pm

Where: Hunter Wetlands Centre Conference Room

Cost: $20 (General Public) $15 (HWCA Members) Free (HWCA Volunteers)

Book Your Tickets Today