A wander through southwest Australia – a globally significant biodiversity hotspot

Dr Lara Shepherd and Dr Leon Perrie, from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Southwest Australia is celebrated as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. In this presentation, Leon and Lara will share an overview of the region’s remarkable flora, fauna, geology, and history, taking you on a journey through their 1000-kilometre trek along the Bibbulmun Track, which stretches from Perth to Albany. Discover how the region’s distinct climatic and geological history—vastly different from that of New Zealand—has shaped its biodiversity, influencing species’ evolution and distributions, and creating unique conservation challenges.

​Nature Talks is a series of bi-monthly talks offered by three local environmental groups—Birds New Zealand (Whanganui Region), the Whanganui branch of Forest & Bird, and the Wanganui Botanical Group—in conjunction with the Whanganui Regional Museum. The topics all relate to New Zealand’s environment, natural history and conservation. The talks are typically held on the third Tuesday of every second month.

Entrance is free, although to help cover costs, a koha is always appreciated from those who can afford it.

Please note, the usual entrance to the Davis Theatre from Watt Street, as seen in the adjacent map, is closed. Entrance to the talk will be via a side door on the opposite side of the building, accessed from the top carpark off Cameron Terrace, and signposted from Watt Street.

For more information contact Peter Frost (06 343 1648). Email pghfrost@xtra.co.nz

Feature image courtesy of Leon Perrie and Lara Shepherd